Renal papillae

Definition

Renal papillae are the apexes of the renal pyramids that project into the minor calyces of the kidney, where urine is funneled into these calyces before passing into the ureter. They contain openings from which urine flows, collected from the collecting ducts.

Related terms

Renal Pyramids: Cone-shaped tissues in the kidneys that process liquid waste and play a critical role in urine formation.

Minor Calyces: Small chambers in the kidney that collect urine from the renal papillae, acting as initial channels for urine flow toward the ureter.

Collecting Ducts: Series of tubules and ducts in the kidney where urine is collected from nephrons, playing a key role in water and electrolyte balance