Which structure is highlighted and indicated by the leader line?
Minor calyx
Renal pelvis
Ronal hilum
Renal sinus
Major calyx
Which of the following is not a function of the kidney?
Multiple Choice
All of these are functions of the kidney
Secretion of renin and erythropoietin
Regulation of water and electrolyte concentrations in the blood
Regulation of blood pressure
The correct answer and explanation is:
Structure Highlighted by the Leader Line:
The structure indicated by the leader line is most likely the Minor Calyx. The minor calyces are cup-shaped structures in the kidney that collect urine from the renal papillae of the renal pyramids. The leader line is commonly used in diagrams to point out a specific structure, and in this case, it could be referring to the minor calyx, which directly drains urine from the kidney’s pyramids into the major calyx, eventually leading to the renal pelvis.
Function of the Kidney:
The correct answer to the multiple-choice question is:
All of these are functions of the kidney.
Explanation:
The kidneys perform a wide range of essential functions necessary to maintain the homeostasis of the body. Here’s a breakdown of the kidney’s roles:
- Secretion of Renin and Erythropoietin:
- Renin is an enzyme secreted by the juxtaglomerular cells of the kidney in response to low blood pressure, low sodium levels, or sympathetic nervous system activity. Renin is crucial for the regulation of blood pressure and fluid balance through the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.
- Erythropoietin is a hormone produced by the kidneys in response to low oxygen levels in the blood. It stimulates the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells, thus improving the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.
- Regulation of Water and Electrolyte Concentrations in the Blood:
- The kidneys filter blood, removing excess water, salts, and waste products. Through processes of filtration, reabsorption, and secretion, the kidneys regulate the balance of water and electrolytes like sodium, potassium, calcium, and phosphate, ensuring proper fluid and electrolyte homeostasis.
- Regulation of Blood Pressure:
- Through the secretion of renin and the regulation of fluid volume, the kidneys play a critical role in blood pressure regulation. By adjusting the volume of blood (through water reabsorption) and the levels of certain electrolytes, the kidneys influence the constriction or dilation of blood vessels, which in turn affects blood pressure.
Thus, all of these functions are essential roles of the kidneys in maintaining overall bodily health.