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At least 16 different cell types make up the renal tubules. [102] The tubules themselves are divided into at least 14 segments, [102] which differ in cell types and functions. [103] The normal functioning of the kidneys is provided by the complex of epithelial, endothelial, interstitial and immune cells. [104]
The collecting duct system of the kidney consists of a series of tubules and ducts that physically connect nephrons to a minor calyx or directly to the renal pelvis.The collecting duct participates in electrolyte and fluid balance through reabsorption and excretion, processes regulated by the hormones aldosterone and vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone).
The distal convoluted tubule has a different structure and function to that of the proximal convoluted tubule. Cells lining the tubule have numerous mitochondria to produce enough energy for active transport to take place. Much of the ion transport taking place in the distal convoluted tubule is regulated by the endocrine system.
This filtrate then flows along the length of the nephron, which is a tubular structure lined by a single layer of specialized cells and surrounded by capillaries. The major functions of these lining cells are the reabsorption of water and small molecules from the filtrate into the blood, and the secretion of wastes from the blood into the urine.
Diagram showing Bowman's capsule as part of the renal corpuscle. The process of filtration of the blood in the Bowman's capsule is ultrafiltration, and the normal rate of filtration is 125 ml/min, equivalent to 80 times the daily blood volume. [citation needed] It is a major site for blood filtration (including glomerulus)
The upper parts of the kidneys are partially protected by the 11th and 12th ribs. Each kidney, with its adrenal gland is surrounded by two layers of fat: the perirenal fat present between renal fascia and renal capsule and pararenal fat superior to the renal fascia. The human kidney is a bean-shaped structure with a convex and a concave border ...
Renal corpuscle showing glomerulus and glomerular capillaries Figure 2: (a) Diagram of the juxtaglomerular apparatus: it has specialized cells working as a unit which monitor the sodiujuxtaglomerular apparatus: it has three types of specm content of the fluid in the distal convoluted tubule (not labelled - it is the tubule on the left) and adjust the glomerular filtration rate and the rate of ...
The main functions of the urinary system and its components are to: Regulate blood volume and composition (e.g. sodium, potassium and calcium) Regulate blood pressure. Regulate pH homeostasis of the blood. Contributes to the production of red blood cells by the kidney. Helps synthesize calcitriol (the active form of Vitamin D).