Question

How does the nephron work?

Answer 1

Nephrons are termed as the complex microscopic cells present in the urinary system. Its function is to synthesise urine and remove waste and excess substances from the blood.

Complete answer:
Nephron is defined as the structural and functional unit of Kidney. The main function that is performed by it is to convert blood into urine by filtration, reabsorption, secretion excretion of useful and harmful substances present in the blood. The nephron in the mammalian kidney is a long tubular structure which is composed of-

1.Bowman's Capsule: This is termed as a cup-like structure through which the renal tubule extents. Ultrafiltration occurs at the Bowman's capsule.
2.Glomerulus: These are termed as the small tufts of capillaries from which blood flows in high pressure. It receives blood from afferent arterioles.

3.Loop of Henle: It is termed as a hair-pin like structure. It is composed of a thin ascending limb and thick ascending limb. Through the loop of Henle, fluid filtered through glomerulus gets towards the collecting duct. Re- absorption of useful substances are performed here.

4.Distal convoluted tubule: The cells that are lining these tubules possess many mitochondria which synthesise energy required for active transport. It helps to reabsorb calcium ions.

5.Proximal convoluted tubule: It is termed as the part of the nephron when salt water and organic solutes like glucose and amino acids are filtered.

6.Collecting tubule: It is termed as the final segment of the tubules just before entering the collecting duct. In these tubules reabsorption of water occurs.

Note: Nephron is termed as the structural and functional unit of Kidney. It helps to regulate water and other soluble substances in the blood. It plays a role in maintaining homeostasis of blood volume, and blood pressure by excreting harmful substances and reabsorbing useful ones.