Fenestrated capillaries

Definition

Fenestrated capillaries are small blood vessels with pores in their endothelial lining, allowing for increased permeability. They are commonly found in organs requiring rapid exchange of substances, such as the kidneys.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fenestrated capillaries have pores called fenestrae that facilitate the filtration process in the kidneys.
2. They are crucial for the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) due to their high permeability.
3. These capillaries are located in the glomeruli of the renal cortex.
4. Their structure supports efficient removal of waste products from the bloodstream into urine.
5. Damage or dysfunction in fenestrated capillaries can lead to impaired kidney function and diseases like proteinuria.

Review Questions

• What role do fenestrated capillaries play in the renal system?
• Where are fenestrated capillaries primarily located within the kidney?
• How do fenestrated capillaries contribute to glomerular filtration?

Related terms

Glomerulus: A network of capillaries involved in the first step of filtering blood to form urine.

Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR): The rate at which blood is filtered through all of the glomeruli per unit time.

Proteinuria: The presence of excess proteins in urine, often indicating kidney damage.