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

Renal Physiology: Overview

Anatomy & Physiology

25. The Urinary System

Renal Physiology: Overview

Previous problemNext problem

Struggling with Anatomy & Physiology?

Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video

Multiple Choice

What is the primary function of the loop of Henle in the nephron?

To concentrate urine by creating a gradient for water reabsorption

To reabsorb glucose and amino acids from the filtrate

To filter blood plasma into the nephron

To secrete hormones that regulate blood pressure

Previous problemNext problem

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the structure and function of the nephron: The nephron is the functional unit of the kidney, responsible for filtering blood and forming urine. It consists of several parts, including the glomerulus, proximal tubule, loop of Henle, distal tubule, and collecting duct.

Focus on the loop of Henle: The loop of Henle is a U-shaped structure within the nephron that plays a critical role in concentrating urine. It has two limbs: the descending limb and the ascending limb, each with distinct functions.

Explain the descending limb: The descending limb is permeable to water but not to solutes. As the filtrate moves down this limb, water is reabsorbed into the surrounding medullary interstitial fluid, increasing the concentration of solutes in the filtrate.

Explain the ascending limb: The ascending limb is impermeable to water but actively transports solutes (such as sodium and chloride ions) out of the filtrate into the medullary interstitial fluid. This creates a concentration gradient in the medulla, which is essential for water reabsorption in later parts of the nephron.

Summarize the primary function: The loop of Henle's main role is to create a concentration gradient in the medulla, which allows the kidney to concentrate urine and conserve water. This process is vital for maintaining the body's fluid and electrolyte balance.