Unit 4 HBS Study guide

Kidneys: Organs that filter blood to remove waste and excess substances, producing urine.

Nephron: The functional unit of the kidney responsible for filtering blood and forming urine.

Glomerulus: A network of capillaries within the nephron where blood filtration begins.

Bowman's Capsule: A cup-like structure that encases the glomerulus and collects the filtrate.

Tubules (Proximal, Loop of Henle, Distal): Structures that reabsorb water and nutrients and secrete waste into the forming urine.

Collecting Duct: Channels that collect urine from multiple nephrons and transport it to the renal pelvis.

Ureters: Tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder.

Bladder: A muscular sac that stores urine until excretion.

Urethra: The duct through which urine is discharged from the bladder to the outside of the body.

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): A genetic disorder characterized by the growth of numerous cysts in the kidneys, leading to impaired function.

Gel Electrophoresis: A laboratory method used to separate DNA fragments by size, often used to detect genetic mutations associated with diseases like PKD.

Urinalysis: A diagnostic test that examines the content of urine to detect abnormalities such as proteins, glucose, ketones, and blood.

Homeostasis: The body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment, including fluid and electrolyte balance.

Digestive System: A system of organs responsible for breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste.

Gut Microbiome: The community of microorganisms residing in the gastrointestinal tract, playing a crucial role in digestion and overall health.

Enzymes: Biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions, including the breakdown of food molecules during digestion.

Amylase: An enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates into simple sugars.

Protease: An enzyme that breaks down proteins into amino acids.

Lipase: An enzyme that breaks down fats into fatty acids and glycerol.

Peristalsis: Involuntary muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract.

Villi: Small finger-like projections in the small intestine that increase surface area for nutrient absorption.

Malabsorption: A condition where the small intestine cannot absorb nutrients effectively, leading to deficiencies.