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Multiple Choice
The macula densa cells continuously monitor ______ in the tubular fluid.
A
sodium chloride concentration
B
glucose levels
C
oxygen saturation
D
amino acid content
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: 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 tubular fluid and regulate kidney function.
Step 2: Recall the physiological importance of sodium chloride (NaCl) concentration in the kidney. Sodium chloride levels in the tubular fluid are critical for maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, as well as for regulating blood pressure through the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.
Step 3: Eliminate incorrect options based on the function of macula densa cells. Glucose levels, oxygen saturation, and amino acid content are not directly monitored by macula densa cells. These parameters are regulated by other mechanisms in the body.
Step 4: Focus on the correct answer, sodium chloride concentration. Macula densa cells detect changes in NaCl concentration in the tubular fluid and signal the juxtaglomerular cells to adjust renin secretion accordingly.
Step 5: Reinforce the concept by understanding the broader context. The macula densa's ability to monitor NaCl concentration is essential for autoregulation of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and maintaining homeostasis in the body.