MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach) Renal Physiology
Nov 13, 2025
Dive into the fascinating world of renal physiology! Discover how the kidneys maintain balance in the body through filtration, reabsorption, and secretion. Explore the anatomy of the kidneys, including the nephron's structure and essential functions. Learn about the critical Loop of Henle and how it affects osmolarity. Hormonal regulation by ADH and aldosterone plays a crucial role in fluid balance, while understanding key measurements like GFR helps assess kidney health. Perfect for anyone eager to grasp kidney function and prepare for the MCAT!
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Cortex Versus Medulla Structure And Role
- The kidney parenchyma splits into an outer cortex and inner medulla with different functions and osmolarities.
- Nephrons span cortex to medulla, enabling filtration and concentration gradients within the kidney.
Five-Part Nephron Workflow
- The nephron has five key anatomical parts: renal corpuscle, proximal tubule, loop of Henle, distal tubule, and collecting duct.
- These segments perform filtration, reabsorption, secretion, and excretion in sequence.
Asparagus Molecule Traces Nephron Journey
- Sam uses asparagus-smell as a playful traveling molecule example to trace nephron flow from blood to urine.
- The example walks through afferent arteriole, glomerulus, Bowman’s capsule, tubules, and collecting duct to excretion.