What are the structural units of kidney?

Options

A. Neurons
B. Alveoli
C. Nephron
D. Axons

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Kidney's Role:**
- The kidney is primarily an excretory organ in the human body. Its main function is to filter blood and remove waste products, particularly nitrogenous wastes such as urea.

2. **Identifying the Structural Units:**
- The fundamental structural and functional units of the kidney are called **nephrons**. Each kidney contains approximately one million nephrons.

3. **Components of Nephrons:**
- Nephrons consist of several key components:
- **Bowman's Capsule:** This is a cup-like structure that encases the glomerulus and is the site where filtration begins.
- **Glomerulus:** A network of capillaries where the filtration of blood occurs.
- **Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT):** The first segment of the nephron where reabsorption of water, ions, and nutrients occurs.
- **Loop of Henle:** A U-shaped portion that plays a critical role in concentrating urine.
- **Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT):** The segment that further adjusts the composition of urine.
- **Collecting Duct:** The final part of the nephron where urine is collected before it moves to the renal pelvis.

4. **Conclusion:**
- Therefore, the structural units of the kidney are **nephrons**, which are essential for the kidney's function in waste removal and urine formation.