anatomy exam 4 pltl

descending limb

highly permeable to water, descends from PCT

macula densa

if sodium levels are too low, it signals the juxtaglomerular cells to release renin, a hormone that helps raise BP and restore filtration rate

renal corpuscle

the initial filtering unit of the nephron in the kidney, contains 2 main structures: the glomerulus and glomerular capsule

juxtamedullary nephrons

play a key role in making concentrated urine

distal convuluted tubule

connects the loop of henle to the connecting duct

vasa recta

capillary bed that surrounds the nephrons, leads to the venous system

intercalated discs

cells that play a pivotal role in acid based balance of the urine

proximal convuluted tubule

reabsorbs 65-70% of the filtrate, contains microvilli for increased surface area

principal cells

cells controlled by ADH and aldosterone, allows water to be reabsorbed into bloodstream