Glomerulus

Definition

The glomerulus is a network of capillaries located at the beginning of a nephron in the kidney. It plays a crucial role in the filtration of blood to form urine.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The glomerulus filters about 180 liters of blood daily, producing approximately 1-2 liters of urine.
2. It operates under high pressure, which helps in the efficient filtration of blood plasma.
3. The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is an important indicator of kidney function and overall renal health.
4. Damage to the glomerulus can lead to conditions such as glomerulonephritis or diabetic nephropathy.
5. Filtration in the glomerulus is size-selective, allowing water and small solutes to pass while retaining larger molecules like proteins.

Review Questions

• What role does the glomerulus play in the renal system?
• How does high pressure within the glomerulus facilitate its function?
• Why is GFR an important measurement in assessing kidney health?

Related terms

Nephron: The functional unit of the kidney responsible for filtering blood and forming urine.

Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR): A measure of how well the kidneys are filtering blood, usually reported in milliliters per minute.

Bowman's Capsule: A cup-like sac that encases the glomerulus and collects filtrate from it.