Tubular secretion

Definition

Tubular secretion is the process by which substances are transported from the blood into the renal tubule. This process helps in maintaining homeostasis by regulating the chemical composition of blood.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tubular secretion occurs primarily in the distal convoluted tubule and collecting duct.
2. Substances commonly secreted include hydrogen ions, potassium ions, and organic anions.
3. This process is essential for maintaining acid-base balance in the body.
4. Tubular secretion helps in eliminating waste products and toxins that were not filtered out at the glomerulus.
5. The rate of tubular secretion can be influenced by hormones such as aldosterone.

Review Questions

• What are the main sites of tubular secretion in the nephron?
• Which substances are typically secreted during tubular secretion?
• How does tubular secretion contribute to acid-base balance?

Related terms

Glomerular Filtration: The initial process in urine formation where blood plasma is filtered through the glomerulus into Bowman's capsule.

Reabsorption: The movement of water and solutes from the renal tubule back into the bloodstream.

Nephron: The functional unit of the kidney responsible for filtering blood and forming urine.