BIOL 2120K Chapter Notes - Chapter 24: Microvillus, Polysaccharide, Pelvic Splanchnic Nerves
Document Summary
Kidneys primary function is to filter blood and convert the filtrate into urine. Then the ureter transports the liquid waste to the urinary bladder (an expandable, muscular sac that stores up to 1l). Then it is eliminated through the urethra out of the body. Several processes occur while the filtrate is in the kidneys being converted to urine: Eliminate ions through urine (ca2+, na+, k+, po43-). Fluid regulation; also release renin-produces angiotensin ii (increase bp). The final enzyme to form calcitrol is synthesized in kidneys. Calcitrol increases absorption of calcium from the small intestine. Low blood oxygen = release of epo, which stimulates rbc formation in red bone marrow. Vessels, nerves, and ureter connect to kidney here. Located in the retroperitoneal space, posterior to the parietal peritoneum. Layers surrounding the kidney (innermost to outermost) i. Prevents infectious pathogens from penetrating the kidney. ii. Corticomedullary junction, or corticomedullary border - where the edge of the medulla meets the cortex.