Most of the blood glucose entering the nephron returns to the plasma b...
Understanding Blood Glucose Reabsorption in the Nephron
The nephron is the functional unit of the kidney responsible for filtering blood and forming urine. One of its critical roles is the reabsorption of substances, including glucose.
Key Processes in Glucose Reabsorption
- Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT):
Most glucose reabsorption occurs in the PCT. Here, approximately 90% of filtered glucose is reabsorbed back into the bloodstream.
- Active Transport Mechanism:
The reabsorption process involves active transport, which requires energy. Glucose is co-transported with sodium ions (Na+) via the sodium-glucose linked transporter (SGLT). This mechanism utilizes the sodium gradient created by the Na+/K+ ATPase pump, allowing glucose to be reabsorbed against its concentration gradient.
- Facilitated Diffusion:
After glucose enters the epithelial cells of the PCT, it moves into the bloodstream through facilitated diffusion via glucose transporter proteins (GLUT). This process does not require energy as it follows the concentration gradient.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect
- Osmosis in the Loop of Henle:
Osmosis primarily concerns water movement, not glucose reabsorption.
- Tubular Excretion in the Distal Tubule:
The distal tubule is involved in the secretion of waste products, not reabsorption of glucose.
- Facilitated Transport in the Distal Tubule:
While facilitated transport occurs, glucose is predominantly reabsorbed in the proximal tubule, making this option incorrect.
Conclusion
In summary, the correct answer is option 'C' because the majority of blood glucose entering the nephron returns to plasma through active transport mechanisms in the proximal tubule, ensuring efficient glucose conservation.
Most of the blood glucose entering the nephron returns to the plasma b...
All of nutrients most of water reabsorb from PCT