Total Glomerular Filtrate Formed in Human Kidney

The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a measure of the amount of blood that is filtered by the glomeruli in the kidneys per unit of time. It is an important indicator of kidney function. In a 24-hour period, the total glomerular filtrate formed in the human kidney is approximately 170 liters.

Factors Affecting Glomerular Filtration Rate:

1. Renal Blood Flow: The rate at which blood flows through the kidneys affects the GFR. Higher blood flow results in a higher GFR.

2. Glomerular Capillary Pressure: The pressure within the glomerular capillaries also affects the GFR. Higher pressure leads to a higher GFR.

3. Filtration Coefficient: This is a measure of the permeability of the glomerular capillaries and the surface area available for filtration. A higher filtration coefficient results in a higher GFR.

4. Net Filtration Pressure: This is the pressure gradient that drives the filtration process. It is determined by the difference between the glomerular capillary pressure and the opposing pressures, such as the fluid pressure in Bowman's capsule and the osmotic pressure of the blood.

Calculation of Total Glomerular Filtrate:

The average GFR in a healthy adult is approximately 125 mL/min or 180 L/day. However, it is important to note that not all of the filtrate formed is excreted as urine. The majority of the filtrate is reabsorbed back into the bloodstream, leaving only a small fraction to be excreted as urine.

In a 24-hour period, the total glomerular filtrate formed is calculated by multiplying the average GFR by 1440 minutes (24 hours x 60 minutes):

Total glomerular filtrate = GFR x 1440

Total glomerular filtrate = 125 mL/min x 1440 min

Total glomerular filtrate = 180,000 mL or 180 liters

Therefore, the correct answer is option 'D' - 170 liters, which is the approximate total glomerular filtrate formed in the human kidney in a 24-hour period.