Cortical vs Juxtamedullary Nephrons — NEET Biology
✅ Asked in NEET 2024Choose the correct statement regarding juxtamedullary nephron:
Choose the correct statement regarding juxtamedullary nephron:
Assertion (A): Nephrons are of two types: Cortical and juxtamedullary. Reason (R): Juxtamedullary nephrons have a short loop of Henle, cortical nephrons have longer loops. Choose the correct option:
Answer & NCERT explanation
Correct answer: C — Loop of Henle runs deep into medulla
Juxtamedullary nephrons have long loops of Henle that extend deep into the medulla, enabling counter-current mechanism for urine concentration. Their renal corpuscles are located in the inner cortex near the medulla. They constitute only 15% of total nephrons but are crucial for water conservation and concentrated urine formation.
Read more NCERT concept on the PYQ
The Malpighian corpuscle, PCT and DCT of the nephron are situated in the cortical region of the kidney whereas the loop of Henle dips into the medulla. In majority of nephrons, the loop of Henle is too short and extends only very little into the medulla. Such nephrons are called cortical nephrons. In some of the nephrons, the loop of Henle is very long and runs deep into the medulla. These nephrons are called juxtamedullary nephrons.
NTA tests your ability to distinguish between two types of nephrons based on their location and loop of Henle length. Cortical nephrons have short loops extending minimally into the medulla, while juxtamedullary nephrons have long loops that penetrate deep into the medulla. Students often confuse which type has the longer loop or forget that both types coexist in the kidney. Remember: "juxtamedullary" literally means "next to medulla," and these nephrons are specialized for producing concentrated urine through the countercurrent mechanism. Juxtamedullary nephrons account for ~15% of nephrons but are critical for osmotic regulation, making them frequent NEET topics.
What does NCERT say about Malpighian corpuscle PCT and?
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