What is the function of the kidneys?

To remove waste products from the blood by filtration (takes place in the renal glomeruli in Bowman's capsules found in the renal cortex), and to control body fluid levels/reclaim water through osmosis using a sodium gradient (takes place in the loops of Henle which form the renal medulla).

 

As renal function is dependent upon blood pressure, the kidneys are also involved in controlling that. The kidneys also produce erythropoietin (EPO) which stimulates red cell (erythrocyte) production in bone marrow, which is why patients in renal failure need to take EPO regularly.

 

So, main functions: Blood filtration, regulation of water in the central compartment (circulatory system), regulation of blood pressure, regulation of red cell production.

To remove waste products from the blood by filtration (takes place in the renal glomeruli in Bowman's capsules found in the renal cortex), and to control body fluid levels/reclaim water through osmosis using a sodium gradient (takes place in the loops of Henle which form the renal medulla).

 

Most water reuptake occurs in the proximal convoluted tubule before the loop of henle...

 

As renal function is dependent upon blood pressure, the kidneys are also involved in controlling that.

 

Yeah, it's hormonally controlled by the endocrine system...

 

Aldosterone - Increase activity of Na+/K+ pump in distal convoluted tubule (increases Na+ uptake, increasing water reuptake)

 

ADH - Anterior pituitary hormone, increases permability of collecting duct, increasing water reabsorption...

 

 

I think the kidney is also involved in pH control... Can't remember how tbh...