Juxtaglomerular apparatus
Juxtaglomerular Apparatus
The Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (pronounced: jux-ta-glo-mer-u-lar ap-pa-ra-tus) is a complex structure found in the kidneys that plays a crucial role in the regulation of renal function.
Etymology
The term "Juxtaglomerular" is derived from Latin, where "juxta" means near and "glomerulus" refers to a small ball. In this context, it refers to the structure's location near the glomerulus in the kidney.
Function
The primary function of the Juxtaglomerular Apparatus is to regulate the function of each nephron, the functional unit of the kidney. It does this by controlling blood pressure and the filtration rate of the glomerulus through the release of renin, an enzyme that regulates blood pressure.
Structure
The Juxtaglomerular Apparatus is composed of three main cells:
- Juxtaglomerular cells: These are specialized smooth muscle cells located in the walls of the afferent arteriole that secrete renin.
- Macula densa cells: These are specialized cells found in the distal convoluted tubule of the nephron. They sense changes in the sodium chloride concentration in the tubular fluid and signal the juxtaglomerular cells to release renin.
- Extraglomerular mesangial cells: These cells are located outside the glomerulus and are thought to play a role in the communication between juxtaglomerular cells and macula densa cells.
Related Terms
- Renin-Angiotensin System: This system is a hormone system that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance. The juxtaglomerular apparatus plays a key role in this system by releasing renin.
- Nephron: This is the functional unit of the kidney. Each nephron contains a juxtaglomerular apparatus.
- Glomerulus: This is a network of tiny blood vessels in the kidney where blood is filtered to form urine. The juxtaglomerular apparatus is located near this structure.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Juxtaglomerular apparatus
- Wikipedia's article - Juxtaglomerular apparatus
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