Compare The Functions Of Each Structure In The Nephron In The Kidney With The Structure Of A Haemodialysis Machine

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UK, 2006:2).

The renal system is the main excretory system and consists of a pair of kidneys to secrete urine, two ureters that carry urine to the bladder, the urinary bladder which collects and temporarily stores the urine and the urethra expels the urine to the exterior. A kidney dissection reveals three distinct areas. These are the cortex, a reddish - brown layer situated around the medulla containing the renal pyramids. These lead to the major calyx in the renal pelvis which in turn leads to the ureter. A common structure residing in the cortex and the medulla is the nephron.


Fig. 1: Kidney and Nephron structure.


Each kidney consists of over one million nephrons that actively filter the blood. Each nephron comprises of a glomerulus and a renal tubule. Each section along the renal tubule has a specific name, structure and function. The renal artery supplies blood to the malphigian body consisting of the Bowman's capsule, also known as the Glomerular capsule, which ...

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Active transport is carried out at the epithelial membrane using energy to move substances against a concentration gradient. Marieb (2012) mentions that there are many carrier cells for substances that the body needs retained, but fewer carrier cells for substances not needed by the body. Glucose and amino acids are usually completely re-absorbed, while re-absorption of nitrogenous waste such as urea, uric acid and creatinine is limited. Re-absorption of water and mineral salts is regulated by the body's need at the time. Waugh (2010) suggests that only 60-70% of the filtrate reaches the Loop of Henle. The function of the Loop of Henle is to increase the salt content of the tissues in ...

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