Exam Preparation - Biology and Physiology Concepts

These flashcards cover key concepts related to biology and physiology, particularly focusing on the immune system, renal physiology, and digestive processes.

Antibody

A blood protein produced in response to and counteracting a specific antigen.

Agranulocytes

A type of white blood cell lacking granules in its cytoplasm, including lymphocytes and monocytes.

Arrhythmias

An irregular heartbeat, which can be caused by abnormal levels of sodium or potassium.

Clearance

The volume of plasma that is cleared of a substance per unit time.

AB Blood Type

A blood type that can transfer plasma but is not compatible with O type recipients for red blood cells.

Aldosterone

A hormone that is secreted in response to low blood pressure and high extracellular potassium.

Fat Digestion and Absorption Steps

A series of processes that include bile salts coating fat droplets and forming chylomicrons.

Podocytes

Cells in the kidneys that create filtration slits for the filtration of blood.

Renin

An enzyme secreted by the juxtaglomerular cells that regulates blood pressure.

MHC Class II proteins

Molecules found on the surface of certain immune cells that present antigens to T cells.

Thymic Epithelial Cells

Cells that provide an environment for the maturation of T lymphocytes.

Calmodulin

An intracellular calcium-binding protein involved in various cellular processes.

Active Immunity

Immunity acquired through exposure to antigens, leading to the production of antibodies.

Micturition Process

The process of discharging urine from the urinary bladder.

Juxtaglomerular Feedback

A process where the juxtaglomerular apparatus regulates glomerular filtration rate.

HCl Release

Hydrochloric acid released by parietal cells in the stomach, essential for digestion.

Vitamin A Storage

Primarily done by hepatic stellate cells in the liver.

Reabsorption Rate

The rate at which fluids are reabsorbed in the kidneys, affecting urine output.

Loop of Henle

A U-shaped section of the nephron that concentrates urine.

Hepatic Portal System

The system of veins that carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver.

Osmolarity

A measure of solute concentration in a solution, particularly relevant in kidney function.