Straight arterioles of kidney

Straight arterioles of kidney

The straight arterioles of kidney, also known as vasa recta renis, are a series of straight capillaries in the medulla (inner part) of the kidney. They are part of the urinary system and play a crucial role in the process of urine production.

File:Kidney Vasculature.png

Diagram showing the basic physiologic mechanisms of the kidney and the locations of the straight arterioles.

Structure

The straight arterioles of the kidney are derived from the efferent arterioles of the juxtamedullary nephrons, which are located near the medulla. These arterioles descend into the medulla and then ascend back towards the cortex. This unique structure forms a hairpin loop, which is essential for the process of urine concentration.

Function

The primary function of the straight arterioles of the kidney is to maintain the osmotic gradient in the renal medulla through a process known as countercurrent exchange. This gradient is crucial for the reabsorption of water from the urine, which helps in maintaining the body's water balance and electrolyte balance.

Clinical significance

Damage to the straight arterioles can lead to various kidney disorders, such as chronic kidney disease and renal failure. It can also affect the body's ability to concentrate urine, leading to conditions like polyuria (excessive urination) and polydipsia (excessive thirst).

See also

• Kidney
• Renal physiology
• Nephron
• Renal circulation