Anatomy Study Guide

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Nephron Function

Nephrons filter blood, reabsorb needed substances, and secrete wastes; each kidney has about 1 million nephrons.

Glomerular Filtration

Movement of substances from blood in the glomerulus into the capsular space.

Tubular Reabsorption

Movement of substances from tubular fluid back into the blood.

Tubular Secretion

Movement of substances from the blood into the tubular fluid.

Kidneys Regulating Blood Pressure

Kidneys release renin, activating RAAS to increase blood volume and cause vasoconstriction, raising blood pressure.

Electrolyte Balance

Kidneys regulate sodium, potassium, calcium, and phosphate by reabsorbing or excreting them as needed.

High Potassium Response

Kidneys excrete more potassium when blood potassium is high.

Erythropoietin (EPO)

Kidney hormone that stimulates red blood cell production in bone marrow.

Kidney Failure and Anemia

Low kidney function reduces EPO, causing anemia, fatigue, and weakness.

Vitamin D Activation

Kidneys convert vitamin D into calcitriol, the active form that increases calcium absorption.

Kidneys and Bone Health

Kidneys regulate calcium and phosphate; poor function weakens bones and increases osteoporosis risk.

Acid-Base Balance

Kidneys excrete hydrogen ions and reabsorb bicarbonate to stabilize blood pH.

CKD Stage 1

eGFR ≥ 90; mild kidney damage; few or no symptoms.

CKD Stage 2

eGFR 60–89; mild kidney damage; few or no symptoms.

CKD Stage 3a

eGFR 45–59; mild to moderate damage; symptoms include fatigue, swelling, itchy skin, abnormal urine.

CKD Stage 3b

eGFR 30–44; moderate to severe damage; similar symptoms to stage 3a.

CKD Stage 4

eGFR 15–29; severe damage; strong symptoms like fatigue, swelling, itchy skin, abnormal urine.

CKD Stage 5

eGFR < 15; kidney failure; requires dialysis or transplant.

Reproductive System

Reproductive System Function

Produces gametes, enables fertilization, supports fetal development (females), produces hormones, and enables childbirth.

Male Gametes

Sperm.

Female Gametes

Eggs (ova).

Where Sperm Is Made

Seminiferous tubules in the testes.

Where Sperm Is Stored

Epididymis.

Sperm Pathway

Seminiferous tubules → epididymis → vas deferens → urethra → exit.

Seminal Fluid Function

Provides nutrients, protection, and a transport medium for sperm.

Female Ovaries Function

Contain immature eggs; eggs mature and are released into fallopian tubes for possible fertilization.