human bio lectures 7-12

What are the main functions of the kidneys?

Remove waste products and maintain balance of extracellular fluid composition and volume.

What does the term 'renal' refer to?

Any term with 'renal' relates to the kidneys.

What is the role of the kidneys in homeostasis?

Maintain mass balance and clearance; waste must leave the body.

What is produced as a waste product during the filtration process?

Urine.

Where are the kidneys located?

In the abdomen, below the rib cage, with the left kidney positioned slightly higher than the right.

What is the function of the renal artery?

It supplies blood to each kidney.

What is the role of the distal convoluted tubule (DCT)?

Secretes excess potassium and regulates blood pH.

What substances are reabsorbed in the proximal convoluted tubule (PCT)?

Glucose, ions, bicarbonates, etc.; about 70% of filtered materials returned to the bloodstream.

Describe the structure of a nephron.

A nephron consists of a renal corpuscle, proximal convoluted tubule (PCT), loop of Henle, distal convoluted tubule (DCT), and a collecting duct.

What is aldosterone and how does it affect kidney function?

Aldosterone is secreted during low blood pressure; it increases sodium absorption, which prevents water loss and increases blood volume.

What is the function of antidiuretic hormone (ADH)?

ADH increases water reabsorption in the collecting ducts via aquaporins, helping lower blood solute concentration.

What is the primary component of urine?

Water, which makes up 95% of urine.

What are the core components of urine?

Water, urea (major nitrogenous waste from protein metabolism).

What can urine analysis indicate?

Hydration levels and diagnose conditions such as diabetes if glucose is present.

What is the process of ultrafiltration in the nephron?

High blood pressure forces small substances through the glomerular filter into Bowman's capsule.

What occurs in the loop of Henle?

Concentrates urine by reabsorbing water in the descending limb and preventing water reentry in the ascending limb.

What is the importance of the renal corpuscle in filtration?

It is where blood is filtered and 70% of the filtered materials are reabsorbed into the bloodstream.

What do podocytes do in the glomerulus?

They wrap around capillary vessels and filter small substances while keeping larger components like cells and proteins in the blood.

What is the primary role of osteoblasts?

Build and form new bone.

What happens during osteoporosis?

Bone structure and strength are compromised, leading to an increased risk of fractures.

What are the primary types of bone cells involved in remodeling?

Osteoblasts (build bone), osteoclasts (degrade bone), and osteocytes (regulate bone activity).

What is the role of calcium in the body?

Calcium is crucial for multiple body functions, including bone strength and supporting physiological processes.