Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a component of the juxtaglomerular apparatus?
A
Macula densa
B
Bowman's capsule
C
Loop of Henle
D
Collecting duct
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the anatomy of the nephron and its associated structures. The juxtaglomerular apparatus (JGA) is a specialized structure in the kidney that plays a role in regulating blood pressure and filtration rate.
Identify the components of the juxtaglomerular apparatus. The JGA consists of three main parts: the macula densa, juxtaglomerular cells, and extraglomerular mesangial cells.
Focus on the macula densa. The macula densa is a group of specialized cells located in the distal convoluted tubule, near the glomerulus. These cells detect sodium concentration in the filtrate and signal the juxtaglomerular cells to release renin if necessary.
Eliminate the incorrect options. Bowman's capsule, Loop of Henle, and Collecting duct are parts of the nephron but are not components of the juxtaglomerular apparatus. Bowman's capsule surrounds the glomerulus, the Loop of Henle is involved in concentration gradients, and the Collecting duct is responsible for water reabsorption.
Conclude that the macula densa is the correct answer because it is a key component of the juxtaglomerular apparatus, involved in monitoring and regulating kidney function.