Peritubular capillaries: Difference between revisions

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'''Peritubular capillaries''' are tiny blood vessels, located in the [[kidney]], that function in the reabsorption of substances into the blood from the [[renal tubules]]. They are part of the [[renal circulation]] and are named for their location around (peri-) the [[renal tubules]].
{{DISPLAYTITLE:Peritubular Capillaries}}
 
==Peritubular Capillaries==
[[File:Figure_41_03_03.png|thumb|right|Diagram of the nephron showing peritubular capillaries.]]
The '''peritubular capillaries''' are a network of tiny blood vessels that surround the [[renal tubule]]s in the [[kidney]]. These capillaries are part of the [[renal circulation]] and play a crucial role in the process of [[reabsorption]] and [[secretion]] during the formation of [[urine]].


==Structure==
==Structure==
Peritubular capillaries arise from [[efferent arterioles]] serving the [[glomerulus]]. They are low-pressure, porous capillaries that reabsorb solutes and water from the tubular fluid (urine) in the [[kidney]]. They are located in the [[cortex]] of the kidney, and are continuous with the [[venous system]] via the [[interlobular veins]].
The peritubular capillaries arise from the [[efferent arterioles]] of the [[glomerulus]]. After blood is filtered through the glomerulus, it exits via the efferent arteriole and enters the peritubular capillaries. These capillaries are closely associated with the [[proximal convoluted tubule]], [[loop of Henle]], [[distal convoluted tubule]], and the [[collecting duct]].


==Function==
==Function==
The primary function of the peritubular capillaries is to reabsorb useful substances such as water and solutes from the renal tubules back into the blood. This process is driven by the [[concentration gradient]] created by the filtration process in the glomerulus. The peritubular capillaries also carry away the substances that are not reabsorbed by the renal tubules.
The primary function of the peritubular capillaries is to facilitate the exchange of substances between the blood and the [[renal tubule]]s. This exchange is essential for the reabsorption of water, ions, and nutrients back into the bloodstream, as well as the secretion of waste products into the tubular fluid.


==Clinical significance==
===Reabsorption===
Damage to the peritubular capillaries can lead to reduced reabsorption of water and solutes, which can result in conditions such as [[proteinuria]] and [[chronic kidney disease]].
During reabsorption, substances such as [[glucose]], [[amino acids]], and [[sodium ions]] are transported from the tubular fluid back into the blood in the peritubular capillaries. This process is vital for maintaining the body's [[homeostasis]] and conserving essential nutrients.


==See also==
===Secretion===
* [[Renal physiology]]
In addition to reabsorption, the peritubular capillaries also play a role in the secretion of substances such as [[hydrogen ions]], [[potassium ions]], and certain drugs into the tubular fluid. This helps in regulating the body's [[acid-base balance]] and removing excess substances from the blood.
* [[Renal corpuscle]]
* [[Renal tubule]]
* [[Renal circulation]]


==References==
==Clinical Significance==
<references />
The function of the peritubular capillaries is critical in various [[renal pathologies]]. For instance, in conditions such as [[chronic kidney disease]], the efficiency of reabsorption and secretion can be impaired, leading to imbalances in fluid and electrolyte levels.


[[Category:Kidney]]
==Related pages==
[[Category:Capillaries]]
* [[Nephron]]
[[Category:Renal physiology]]
* [[Glomerulus]]
* [[Renal circulation]]
* [[Urine formation]]


{{stub}}
[[Category:Renal anatomy]]

Latest revision as of 05:27, 16 February 2025


Peritubular Capillaries[edit]

Diagram of the nephron showing peritubular capillaries.

The peritubular capillaries are a network of tiny blood vessels that surround the renal tubules in the kidney. These capillaries are part of the renal circulation and play a crucial role in the process of reabsorption and secretion during the formation of urine.

Structure[edit]

The peritubular capillaries arise from the efferent arterioles of the glomerulus. After blood is filtered through the glomerulus, it exits via the efferent arteriole and enters the peritubular capillaries. These capillaries are closely associated with the proximal convoluted tubule, loop of Henle, distal convoluted tubule, and the collecting duct.

Function[edit]

The primary function of the peritubular capillaries is to facilitate the exchange of substances between the blood and the renal tubules. This exchange is essential for the reabsorption of water, ions, and nutrients back into the bloodstream, as well as the secretion of waste products into the tubular fluid.

Reabsorption[edit]

During reabsorption, substances such as glucose, amino acids, and sodium ions are transported from the tubular fluid back into the blood in the peritubular capillaries. This process is vital for maintaining the body's homeostasis and conserving essential nutrients.

Secretion[edit]

In addition to reabsorption, the peritubular capillaries also play a role in the secretion of substances such as hydrogen ions, potassium ions, and certain drugs into the tubular fluid. This helps in regulating the body's acid-base balance and removing excess substances from the blood.

Clinical Significance[edit]

The function of the peritubular capillaries is critical in various renal pathologies. For instance, in conditions such as chronic kidney disease, the efficiency of reabsorption and secretion can be impaired, leading to imbalances in fluid and electrolyte levels.

Related pages[edit]