2 Main Functions of the Urinary System
4 Different Types of Nitrogenous Wastes
Amino Acids
Ammonia
Urea
-Main nitrogenous waste excreted by mammals
-Less toxic than ammonia
-Synthesis requires significant amounts of energy
-Is an amino acid
*Liver urea cycle:
CO2 + 2NH3 + ATP -> Urea + H2O
Uric Acid
4 Components of the Human Urinary System
Kidneys
- Location: paravertebral & retroperitoneal; below diaphragm
3 Layers Surrounding Kidneys
Hilum
Concave depression at center of kidney
Nephroptosis
Hydronephrosis
Atrophy of the kidneys, leading to renal failure
3 Areas of the Kidney
Renal Cortex
- Composed of renal columns
Renal Medulla
- Composed of renal pyramids
Renal Pelvis
8 Functions of the Kidneys
Nephrons
- 2 main components
2 Main Components of the Nephrons
2. Renal Tubule
Renal Corpuscle (2 Parts)
2. Glomerulus
Bowman’s Capsule
Glomerulus
Capillary tuft surrounded by visceral layer of Bowman’s capsule
Filtration Membrane of the Glomerulus (3 Parts)
Fenestrated Glomerular Endothelium
- Contains mesangial cells; regulate the surface area available for filtration