JUXTAGLOMERULAR APPARATUS Meaning and
Definition
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The juxtaglomerular apparatus is a specialized structure located within the kidney, specifically at the point where the distal convoluted tubule comes into close association with the afferent and efferent arterioles of the renal corpuscle or glomerulus. This highly important apparatus plays a vital role in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance in the body.
Consisting of three main cellular components, the juxtaglomerular apparatus includes the macula densa cells, juxtaglomerular (JG) cells, and extraglomerular mesangial cells. The macula densa cells are part of the distal tubule and are responsible for monitoring the electrolyte composition and flow rate of fluid passing through the tubule. The JG cells are specialized smooth muscle cells found within the wall of the afferent arteriole and secrete the enzyme renin. Finally, the extraglomerular mesangial cells provide structural support and communication between the macula densa and JG cells.
The juxtaglomerular apparatus plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of salt and water in the body. When the macula densa cells detect low sodium levels in the filtrate or a decrease in blood pressure, they stimulate the JG cells to release renin into the bloodstream. Renin then acts as an enzyme, initiating a series of biochemical reactions that ultimately lead to the production of angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor. The vasoconstriction leads to an increase in blood pressure, while angiotensin II also triggers the release of aldosterone, which promotes sodium reabsorption in the distal tubules, increasing water retention.
Therefore, the juxtaglomer
Common Misspellings for JUXTAGLOMERULAR APPARATUS
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Etymology of JUXTAGLOMERULAR APPARATUS
The word "juxtaglomerular apparatus" is derived from Latin and Greek roots.
The term "juxta-" comes from the Latin word "juxta", which means "near" or "next to". This prefix is commonly used in medical terminology to indicate something that is located close to a particular structure or organ.
"Glomerular" is derived from the Latin word "glomerulus", meaning "a small ball". In medicine, the term is used to refer to the tiny, coiled capillary network in the renal corpuscle of the kidney, involved in the process of filtration.
The word "apparatus" comes from the Latin word "apparatus", which means "equipment" or "device". In this context, it refers to a complex structure or system.
