What is the function of the convoluted tubules?

What is the function of the convoluted tubules?

The distal convoluted tubule (DCT) is a short nephron segment, interposed between the macula densa and collecting duct. Even though it is short, it plays a key role in regulating extracellular fluid volume and electrolyte homeostasis.

What is the benefit of having a convoluted tubule?

The distal convoluted tubule and collecting ducts are then largely responsible for reabsorbing water as required to produce urine at a concentration that maintains body fluid homeostasis.

What is the structure and function of the proximal convoluted tubule?

The proximal convoluted tubule avidly reabsorbs filtered glucose into the peritubular capillaries so that it is all reabsorbed by the end of the proximal tubule. The mechanism for glucose reabsorption was described in Chapter 7.4. The proximal tubule is the only site for glucose reabsorption.

How does the proximal convoluted tubule reabsorb?

Fluid in the filtrate entering the proximal convoluted tubule is reabsorbed into the peritubular capillaries. This is driven by sodium transport from the lumen into the blood by the Na+/K+ ATPase in the basolateral membrane of the epithelial cells. Sodium reabsorption is primarily driven by this P-type ATPase.

Which structure does the distal convoluted lead to?

The proximal convoluted tubule leads to the loop of Henle. This then leads to the distal convoluted tubule. The distal convoluted tubule then leads to the collecting duct.

What is the function of Henle’s loop?

The principal function of the loop of Henle is in the recovery of water and sodium chloride from urine. This function allows production of urine that is far more concentrated than blood, limiting the amount of water needed as intake for survival.

What is the major function of the distal convoluted tubule in the nephron?

A distal convoluted tubule connects to the collecting duct system that fine-tunes salt and water reabsorption and plays a major role in acid–base balance.

How does the structure of the glomerulus correspond with its function?

Each nephron has multiple sub-structures within it that relate to the kidney’s overall function. Glomerulus – A dense network of capillaries which are under very high pressure and filter out small molecules from the blood into the bowmans capsule via a process called ultrafiltration.

How selective reabsorption occurs in the proximal convoluted tubule?

When the filtrate leaves the Bowman’s capsule and enters the proximal convoluted tubule, sodium and chloride ions, as well as amino acids, glucose and vitamins move back into the blood. This occurs by them diffusing from the filtrate into the cells lining the proximal convoluted tubule.

Which structure does the proximal convoluted lead to?

The proximal convoluted tubule leads to the loop of Henle. This then leads to the distal convoluted tubule.