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Encyclopedia > Distal tubule
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Kidney nephron

The distal convoluted tubule (DCT) is a portion of kidney nephron between the loop of Henle and the collecting duct system. It is partly responsible for the regulation of potassium, sodium, calcium, and pH.


Physiology

The DCT regulates pH by absorbing bicarbonate and secreting protons (H+) into the filtrate. Sodium and potassium levels are controlled by secreting K+ and absorbing Na+.


Sodium absorption by the distal tubule is mediated by the hormone aldosterone. Aldosterone increases sodium reabsorption.


The DCT also participates in calcium regulation by absorbing Ca2+ in response to parathyroid hormone.


Thiazide diuretics inhibit Na+/Cl- reabsorption from the DCT.


Histology

Histologically, cells of the DCT can be differentiated from cells of the proximal convoluted tubule since: -

  • DCT cells do not have an apical brush border
  • DCT cells are less eosinophilic than proximal cells
  • DCT cells have less cytoplasm
  • DCT cells are more likely to have visible nuclei

External links

  • Kidney function - Loyola University (http://www.meddean.luc.edu/lumen/meded/mech/cases/case24/kidney.htm)
  • Calcium regulation - Cornell University (http://web.vet.cornell.edu/public/popmed/clinpath/CPmodules/chem/capmg.htm)

  Results from FactBites:
 
Magnesium Transport in the Renal Distal Convoluted Tubule -- Dai et al. 81 (1): 51 -- Physiological Reviews (7807 words)
are absorbed in the distal tubule (19, 92, 93, 248, 252,
that magnesium is reabsorbed in the superficial distal tubule,
tubule, loop of Henle, and distal tubule (83, 113).
Nephron at AllExperts (899 words)
It is a tiny tubule consisting of a cluster of capillaries called the glomerulus, surrounded by a hollow bulb known as Bowman's capsule.
The proximal tubule reabsorbs fluid in bulk from the filtrate, including 2/3 filtered salt and water and all filtered organic solutes (primarily glucose and amino acids).
The distal tubule is similar to the proximal tubule.
  More results at FactBites »


 
 

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