Introduction and Nephron Anatomy

1. What are the main functions of the kidneys

Maintain ECF volume, electrolyte composition, and osmolarity while removing wastes.

2. What is extracellular fluid (ECF)

Fluid outside cells, including plasma and interstitial fluid.

3. What is the minimum amount of water the kidneys must excrete daily

Approximately 500 mL.

4. What are the two main regions of the kidney

Renal cortex and renal medulla.

5. What is the renal cortex

The superficial outer region of the kidney.

6. What is the renal medulla

The inner region containing renal pyramids.

7. What are renal columns

Extensions of the renal cortex between renal pyramids.

8. What is the renal papilla

The apex of a renal pyramid.

9. What is a nephron

The basic functional unit of the kidney.

10. How many nephrons does each kidney contain

More than one million.

11. What are the five main parts of a nephron

Glomerular portion, proximal convoluted tubule, nephron loop, distal convoluted tubule, and collecting ducts.

12. What are the two components of a nephron

Tubular and vascular components.

13. What is the tubular component

The tube through which filtrate flows and reabsorption and secretion occur.

14. What is the vascular component

The blood vessels involved in filtration and exchange.

15. What does the afferent arteriole do

Carries blood into the glomerulus.

16. What does the efferent arteriole do

Carries blood away from the glomerulus.

17. What are peritubular capillaries

Capillaries that supply kidney tissues and exchange substances with nephron tubules.

18. What is the function of the proximal tubule

Reabsorbs most valuable filtered substances.

19. What is the function of the loop of Henle

Establishes the vertical osmotic gradient.

20. What is the function of the distal tubule and collecting ducts

Regulate blood osmolarity, volume, and pressure.

21. What are cortical nephrons

Nephrons located mainly in the cortex; approximately 80% of all nephrons.

22. What are juxtamedullary nephrons

Nephrons with long loops of Henle extending deep into the medulla; approximately 20% of all nephrons.