Cortical nephrons are different from juxtamedullary nephrons in that (check all that apply)

Cortical nephrons are different from juxtamedullary nephrons in that (check all that apply)

Cortical nephrons are much less abundant.
Cortical nephrons produce urine, whereas juxtamedullary nephrons do not.
Cortical nephrons’ loop is shorter, with a shorter thin segment.
Cortical nephrons do not have a proximal convoluted tubule.
Cortical nephrons are mostly surrounded by vasa recta.

The correct answer and explanation is :

Correct Answers:

✅ Cortical nephrons’ loop is shorter, with a shorter thin segment.

Explanation:

Nephrons are the functional units of the kidney, responsible for filtering blood and forming urine. There are two main types of nephrons: cortical nephrons and juxtamedullary nephrons. They differ in structure, function, and location within the kidney.

Key Differences:

1. Abundance – Cortical nephrons make up about 85% of all nephrons, while juxtamedullary nephrons constitute only about 15%. Therefore, the statement “Cortical nephrons are much less abundant” is incorrect.
2. Urine Production – Both cortical and juxtamedullary nephrons produce urine. Juxtamedullary nephrons play a more significant role in concentrating urine, but it is incorrect to say they do not produce urine. Hence, the statement “Cortical nephrons produce urine, whereas juxtamedullary nephrons do not” is false.
3. Loop of Henle (Nephron Loop) – Cortical nephrons have a shorter loop of Henle that extends only slightly into the medulla, whereas juxtamedullary nephrons have a longer loop that extends deep into the medulla. This longer loop in juxtamedullary nephrons is crucial for the kidney’s ability to concentrate urine. The correct answer is:
   ✅ Cortical nephrons’ loop is shorter, with a shorter thin segment.
4. Proximal Convoluted Tubule – Both types of nephrons have a proximal convoluted tubule, which is essential for reabsorbing water, ions, and nutrients. Thus, the statement “Cortical nephrons do not have a proximal convoluted tubule” is false.
5. Blood Supply – Cortical nephrons are mainly surrounded by peritubular capillaries, while juxtamedullary nephrons are associated with the vasa recta, which helps maintain the osmotic gradient necessary for urine concentration. Therefore, the statement “Cortical nephrons are mostly surrounded by vasa recta” is incorrect.