Cellular heterogeneity of the distal nephron and its relation to function

摘要: The distal segments beyond the macula densa--distal convoluted tubule, connecting cortical collecting duct--display cellular heterogeneity. four different cell types, namely DCT cell, CNT principal and intercalated differ mainly by pattern of membrane amplification they reveal also qualitative differences as to some cytoplasmic proteins. Each types adapts chronic changes in electrolyte metabolism with structural alteration, concerning essentially area over which active transport step proceeds, DCT-, CNT- P-cells basolateral Na-K-ATPase, cells luminal a H+ ATPase. Since each type responds only specific conditions associated transcellular activity, morphological studies can help determine role regulation renal excretion. Such investigations demonstrated that besides mineralocorticoid hormones capacity certain should depend on solute composition tubular fluid. Thus, specifically induced one segment alters patterns downstream. Cellular heterogeneity seems guarantee optimal