Which part of the juxtamedullary nephron is responsible for establishing the vertical osmotic gradient in the medulla of the kidney?
A)collecting duct
B)afferent arteriole
C)loop of Henle
D)juxtaglomerular apparatus
E)distal tubule

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The loop of Henle is responsible for establishing the vertical osmotic gradient in the medulla of the kidney, which is necessary for the formation of concentrated urine. Specifically, the thin descending limb of the loop of Henle is relatively impermeable to ions but permeable to water, allowing water to be reabsorbed from the filtrate and establishing a high concentration of solutes in the interstitial fluid of the medulla. This concentration gradient is then maintained by the active transport of ions, such as sodium and chloride, in the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle.

Which Part of the Juxtamedullary Nephron Is Responsible for Establishing