Ch. 3: The Kidney

A set of flashcards covering vocabulary and key concepts related to the structure and function of the kidney, nephron, and related physiological processes.

Nephron

The functional unit of the kidney responsible for filtration and urine formation.

Afferent arteriole

Supplies blood to the glomerulus of each nephron.

Glomerular filtration

The process by which plasma is filtered through the glomeruli into Bowman’s capsule.

Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS)

A hormone system that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance.

Tubular reabsorption

The process whereby substances are reabsorbed from the filtrate back into the blood.

Countercurrent multiplier mechanism

A process that concentrates urine by creating a gradient in the kidney medulla.

ADH (Antidiuretic Hormone)

Hormone that facilitates water reabsorption in the collecting ducts.

Filtration forces

Factors, primarily hydrostatic pressure, that drive glomerular filtration.

Juxtaglomerular apparatus

A structure that regulates blood pressure and the filtration rate of the glomerulus.

Tubular transport capacity (Tm)

The maximum rate at which substances can be reabsorbed or secreted by the nephrons.

Proximal convoluted tubule (PCT)

The segment of the nephron responsible for the majority of reabsorption of nutrients and water.

Loop of Henle

The section of the nephron responsible for concentrating urine through countercurrent multiplication.

Distal convoluted tubule (DCT)

The part of the nephron involved in the reabsorption of sodium and the secretion of potassium.

Collecting duct

The final part of the nephron that reabsorbs water and concentrates urine.

Acid-base equilibrium

The balance of acids and bases in the body, regulated by the kidneys.

Hydrostatic pressure

The force exerted by fluid in the glomerular capillaries, driving filtration.

Glomerulus

A network of capillaries where blood filtration occurs in the kidney.

Renal blood circulation

The flow of blood through the kidneys, essential for maintaining kidney function.

Urea cycle

A metabolic pathway that converts ammonia to urea for excretion.

Filtration barrier

Three structures that selectively allow materials to pass during glomerular filtration.