Distal convoluted tubules

Distal Convoluted Tubule

The Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT) is a portion of the kidney nephron between the Loop of Henle and the Collecting Duct System. It plays a crucial role in the reabsorption of ions, water, and other substances from the glomerular filtrate, converting it into urine.

Function

The DCT is responsible for the selective reabsorption and secretion of various ions to maintain the body's electrolyte balance. It reabsorbs sodium, chloride, and calcium ions from the urine while secreting potassium and hydrogen ions into the urine.

Structure

The DCT is a highly convoluted structure that extends from the macula densa and ends at the collecting duct. It is lined by a single layer of cuboidal cells with very few microvilli, a characteristic that distinguishes it from the proximal convoluted tubule.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities in the function or structure of the DCT can lead to various kidney disorders. For example, Bartter syndrome is a rare inherited defect in the DCT where it is unable to reabsorb sodium, leading to low levels of potassium and acid in the blood.

See Also

• Nephron
• Renal physiology
• Renal tubule

References

Distal convoluted tubules Resources
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