The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is controlled by various mechanisms, including:
* Renal autoregulation: the ability of the kidneys to maintain a constant blood flow and GFR despite changes in blood pressure.
* Hormonal regulation: hormones such as angiotensin II, aldosterone, and atrial natriuretic peptide can affect GFR by altering renal blood flow and/or the permeability of the glomerular membrane.
* Neural regulation: the sympathetic nervous system can affect GFR by constricting or dilating the afferent arterioles that supply blood to the glomerulus.
* Tubuloglomerular feedback: the juxtaglomerular apparatus in the kidney can sense changes in the flow of fluid through the tubules and adjust the resistance of the afferent arterioles accordingly.
* Physical factors: the size and charge of the molecules passing through the glomerular membrane can affect GFR, as can the surface area and permeability of the membrane itself.