Juxtamedullary nephron

Juxtamedullary nephron is a type of nephron, the functional unit of the kidney. It plays a crucial role in the concentration and dilution of urine. The juxtamedullary nephrons are located near the medulla in the renal cortex. They have a longer Loop of Henle which extends deep into the renal medulla, allowing for the creation of a concentrated urine.

Structure

The juxtamedullary nephron comprises several parts: the renal corpuscle, the proximal convoluted tubule, the Loop of Henle, and the distal convoluted tubule. The renal corpuscle consists of the glomerulus and Bowman's capsule. The glomerulus is a network of capillaries that performs the first step of filtering blood. Bowman's capsule surrounds the glomerulus and collects the filtrate that the glomerulus generates.

Function

The primary function of the juxtamedullary nephron is to concentrate the urine, allowing the body to retain water. This is achieved by the countercurrent multiplier system, which involves the vasa recta and the Loop of Henle. The descending limb of the Loop of Henle is permeable to water but not to ions, while the ascending limb is permeable to ions but not to water. This creates a concentration gradient in the interstitial fluid of the renal medulla, which aids in the reabsorption of water from the urine.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in the function of the juxtamedullary nephron can lead to various kidney diseases, such as chronic kidney disease and acute kidney injury. Understanding the structure and function of the juxtamedullary nephron is crucial in the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases.

See also

• Cortical nephron
• Renal physiology
• Renal function

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