Final answer:
The statement is false; renal innervation is provided by sympathetic neurons through the celiac plexus and splanchnic nerves, not a renal sympathetic plexus, controlling renal blood flow and filtration by modifying vessel dilation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that nerves originate in the renal sympathetic plexus and are distributed along the branches of the renal vessels is false. In fact, the kidneys are innervated by sympathetic neurons of the autonomic nervous system via the celiac plexus and splanchnic nerves. These neurons control the renal blood flow and filtration processes by causing vasodilation or vasoconstriction of the renal arteries.
During stress, sympathetic nerve activity increases, leading to vasoconstriction of afferent arterioles and reduced blood flow through the kidneys. This mechanism helps redirect blood to more vital organs. Conversely, under resting conditions, reduced sympathetic stimulation allows for vasodilation and increased blood flow, facilitating filtration. The renal arteries, originating from the aorta, supply blood to the kidneys, and the neural control is essential for maintaining the blood pressure and osmolarity of the body by adjusting the glomerular filtration rate (GFR).