Arcuate arteries

Definition

Arcuate arteries are blood vessels in the kidneys that arch over the base of the renal pyramids. They play a crucial role in supplying blood to the renal cortex and medulla for filtration and osmoregulation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Arcuate arteries are located at the border between the renal cortex and medulla.
2. They branch from the interlobar arteries and give rise to cortical radiate (interlobular) arteries.
3. These arteries form arcs along the boundary, which is why they are called 'arcuate'.
4. Arcuate arteries help in delivering oxygenated blood necessary for kidney function.
5. They are essential for maintaining proper osmotic balance by ensuring efficient blood flow through nephrons.

Review Questions

• Where are arcuate arteries located within the kidney?
• From which arteries do arcuate arteries branch?
• What is the primary function of arcuate arteries?

Related terms

Nephrons: The functional units of the kidneys responsible for filtering blood and forming urine.

Renal Cortex: The outer region of the kidney where initial stages of blood filtration occur.

Interlobar Arteries: Blood vessels that run between renal lobes, supplying blood to arcuate arteries.