Pronunciation: [kˈɪdnɪ kˈɔːtɛks] (IPA) 
The word "Kidney Cortex" is spelled with a "k" sound followed by a long "i" sound and then a "d" sound. The "n" sound and "ey" spell the next two syllables, and the final syllable is spelled with a "k" sound, "s" sound, and a "t" sound. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be written as /ˈkɪdni ˈkɔːtɛks/. The kidney cortex is the outer part of the kidney, responsible for filtering blood and producing urine.
Kidney Cortex refers to the outer region of the kidney, which is responsible for performing several important functions. It is the part of the kidney that lies just beneath the kidney's protective capsule and surrounds the inner region called the medulla. The cortex contains millions of functional units known as nephrons, which are responsible for the filtration and purification of blood to produce urine.
The main function of the kidney cortex is to filter waste products, toxins, and excess water from the blood. It acts as a filtration system by selectively reabsorbing essential substances, such as glucose, ions, and water, back into the bloodstream while allowing waste products to be eliminated as urine. This process helps maintain the balance of various substances in the body, including electrolytes, pH levels, and fluid volume.
The kidney cortex also plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure. Specialized cells within the cortex, known as juxtaglomerular cells, monitor blood pressure and release hormones, such as renin, which helps regulate blood pressure by constricting blood vessels and increasing fluid retention.
In addition, the kidney cortex is involved in the production and secretion of various hormones, including erythropoietin (EPO), which stimulates the production of red blood cells, and calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D, which helps regulate calcium and phosphorus levels in the body.
Overall, the kidney cortex is a vital component of kidney structure and function, playing a key role in maintaining overall health and homeostasis within the body.
The word "kidney" is derived from the Old English "cneo", which itself can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "kenu" meaning "kidney". The term "cortex" originates from the Latin word "cortex", which translates to "bark" or "rind".
The kidney cortex refers to the outer region of the kidney, which is where several vital functions take place, including filtration of blood and secretion of certain hormones.
