Renal Physiology and the Urinary System

What this unit covers

The resources follow the kidney from gross anatomy to fine control of body fluids. The mind map structure of nephron separates cortical from juxtamedullary nephrons and describes the peritubular capillaries. Glomerular filtration, tubularReabsorption and tubular Secretion then links the three processes that make urine.

Where to start

Begin with the basics. The mind maps Urinary System and Overview of renal physiology give you the layout, and the quiz The Kidney: Filtration, Reabsorption and Secretion asks you to label the kidney, the nephron and the renal corpuscle. Next, move to the flashcard decks on glomerular filtration and on reabsorption and secretion.

Water, hormones and electrolytes

Once the nephron makes sense, turn to control. The Urine concentration mind map covers the loop of Henle, the countercurrent multiplier and variable reabsorption of water. Regulation of Water Balance ( Osmolarity ) explains why sodium content is not the same as osmolarity, using an isotonic saline drip as an example. ADH - Anti-Diuretic Hormone and Hormones of the kidney cover vasopressin and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, and several flowcharts show the RAAS pathway, ANP and aldosterone control of sodium and potassium. The mind maps on Na+, K+ and Ca2+ in the kidney deal with each ion in turn.

Using quizzes and maps together

• Read a mind map first, then close it and take a quiz on the same topic.
• Note the questions you miss and return to the matching map or notes.
• Use flashcards such as BRS Renal and Acid-Base Physiology for practice questions on potassium secretion and water loads.
• Finish with a longer paper, such as the quiz Renal Practice Exam.

Where it fits

This unit sits in the strand Renal Physiology, Fluids and Acid-Base, within Physiology. It includes resources on acid handling in the kidney and on renal function tests. Choose one topic today, try a quiz, and then build a map or deck of your own.