Question

What are nephrons with a short loop of Henle called, and why might they have a reduced vasa recta?

a. Juxtamedullary nephrons; for efficient water reabsorption
b. Cortical nephrons; for osmotic balance regulation
c. Medullary nephrons; for concentrated urine production
d. Cortical nephrons; vasa recta reduction due to energy conservation

Answer 1

Juxtamedullary nephrons have a shorter loop of Henle, allowing them to regulate urine concentration better than cortical nephrons. This is achieved through a reduced vasa recta, which aids in efficient water reabsorption and helps maintain the countercurrent multiplier system.

Step-by-step explanation:

Juxtamedullary nephrons have a shorter loop of Henle, allowing them to regulate urine concentration better than cortical nephrons. This shorter loop of Henle in juxtamedullary nephrons leads to a reduced vasa recta, which aids in efficient water reabsorption. The reduced vasa recta helps to maintain the countercurrent multiplier system, which is essential for the formation of concentrated urine.