Explain how the kidney are structurally adapted to perform their functions

​​Explain how the kidney is adapted to its function

​Adaptations for ultra-filtration 

• It has a selective permeable Bowman's capsule that only allows food substances and food products to pass through but prevents the passage of plasma proteins and blood cells. 
• The afferent arteriole is highly branched in the glomerulus and this provides a larger surface area for blood to flow in the kidney for filtration. 
• The efferent arteriole have a narrower lumen than the afferent arteriole and this builds up higher pressure necessary for ultra-filtration. 

​Adaptations for reabsorption 

• Kidney tubules are long and coiled and this provides a larger surface area for reabsorption and more time is allowed for reabsorption of the useful products. 
• The kidney tubules are highly vascularised to ensure constant removal of reabsorbed substances hence creating more room for further reabsorption. 
• The microvilli on the inner surface of epithelial lining of proximal convoluted tubules provide a larger surface area for reabsorption. 
• Cells lining the kidney tubules/proximal convoluted tubule have numerous mitochondria which provide energy for active reabsorption of glucose, amino acids, vitamins and mineral salts. 
• The loop of henle is U -shaped and this creates a multiple counter current system for efficient reabsorption of substances

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