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Nephron

Definition

It is the functional unit of kidney

Near about 1 million nephrons form the substance of the kidney

Structure

Consists of a tubule closed at one end and the other end opens into a collecting tubule

The closed or blind end is cupped and is called glomerular capsule (Bowman's capsule)

Within the glomerular capsule there is a network of arterial capillaries - the glomerulus

The remainder of the nephron 3 cm; three parts

1. the proximal convoluted tubule

2. the medullary loop (loop of Henle)

3. the distal convoluted tubule leading into a collecting tubule

The blood pressure in the glomerulus is higher than in other capillaries because the diameter of the afferent arteriole is greater than that of the efferent arteriole.

The walls of the glomerulus and the glomerular capsule consist of a single layer of flattened epithelial cells. The glomerular wall is very permeable.

The remainder of the nephron and and the collecting tubule are formed by a single layer of highly specialised cells.

Nerve supply : sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves