How Kidneys Work

• What is the main role of the kidneys?

  To filter blood and remove waste
• What is the main waste product filtered by the kidneys?

  Urea
• How is urea produced in the body?

  Through deamination of excess amino acids
• Why is it important to regulate ion levels in the body?

  To prevent cell damage and maintain function
• What ions do we commonly get from our diet?

  Sodium and potassium ions
• How do we lose ions from our body?

  Primarily through sweating
• What is the main way the body regulates water levels?

  Through the kidneys in urine formation
• What happens to cells when there is too much water in the body?

  They swell and may burst
• What is the process called where the kidneys absorb useful substances?

  Selective reabsorption
• What structures in the kidneys are responsible for filtering blood?

  Nephrons
• What is the analogy used to describe selective reabsorption?

  Cleaning out your house and keeping what you want
• What hormone is released by the pituitary gland to regulate water levels?

  ADH (antidiuretic hormone)
• What does ADH do when water levels are low?

  It signals kidneys to reabsorb more water
• What happens when water levels in the bloodstream are too high?

  Less ADH is released, producing more urine
• How does the hypothalamus contribute to water regulation?

  It detects water concentration in the bloodstream
• What is the process of water regulation in the body?

  • Hypothalamus detects water levels
  • Sends signals to pituitary gland
  • Pituitary releases ADH into bloodstream
  • ADH tells kidneys to reabsorb more water
  • Results in less urine production
• What is a negative feedback loop in water regulation?

  • Body monitors water levels
  • Adjusts levels to maintain balance
  • Increases ADH when water is low
  • Decreases ADH when water is high
• What is the consequence of dehydration on urine production?

  More urine is produced
• Why is it important for the body to maintain water balance?

  To ensure proper cell function and health