Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

25. The Urinary System

Introduction to the Urinary System

Anatomy & Physiology

25. The Urinary System

Introduction to the Urinary System

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Multiple Choice

The macula densa cells respond to which of the following changes in the filtrate?

Changes in oxygen saturation

Changes in blood pH

Changes in sodium chloride concentration

Changes in blood glucose levels

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of macula densa cells: These specialized cells are located in the distal convoluted tubule of the nephron and are part of the juxtaglomerular apparatus. Their primary function is to monitor the composition of the filtrate, specifically sodium chloride (NaCl) concentration.

Recall the physiological mechanism: Macula densa cells detect changes in NaCl concentration in the filtrate. If NaCl levels are too high or too low, they signal the juxtaglomerular cells to adjust the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) by releasing renin or altering afferent arteriole constriction.

Eliminate incorrect options: Changes in oxygen saturation, blood pH, and blood glucose levels are not directly monitored by macula densa cells. These parameters are regulated by other systems in the body, such as respiratory control for oxygen saturation and insulin for glucose levels.

Focus on sodium chloride concentration: When NaCl concentration in the filtrate changes, macula densa cells initiate a feedback mechanism called tubuloglomerular feedback to maintain homeostasis in kidney function.

Summarize the correct answer: The macula densa cells respond specifically to changes in sodium chloride concentration in the filtrate, ensuring proper regulation of GFR and overall kidney function.