macula densa cells

WordNet-Online
Free dictionary and thesaurus of English. Definitions, synonyms, antonyms and more...
Hint: double-click any word to get it searched!

Definitions from the Web

Macula Densa Cells

Description

Macula densa cells are specialized cells located in the kidney's juxtaglomerular apparatus. They play a crucial role in regulating the filtration rate and blood flow within the kidney, thus contributing to the overall balance of fluids and electrolytes in the body.

Senses

Sense 1:

(Noun) A type of renal cell found in the juxtaglomerular apparatus

Sample Sentence:

The macula densa cells monitor the sodium concentration in the distal convoluted tubule to regulate the glomerular filtration rate.

Sense 2:

(Noun) The cluster of macula densa cells within the juxtaglomerular apparatus

Sample Sentence:

The macula densa, along with the juxtaglomerular cells, forms the intricate juxtaglomerular apparatus responsible for renal regulation.

Usages

Usage 1:

(Medical) Macula densa cells are key players in the renal autoregulation and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.

Sample Sentence:

Impairment of macula densa cells can lead to dysregulation of blood pressure and fluid balance in the body.

Usage 2:

(Anatomy) The macula densa cells are located at the end of the thick ascending limb of Henle's loop.

Sample Sentence:

The macula densa cells are positioned in close proximity to the afferent arteriole, facilitating their role in sensing and responding to changes in sodium concentration.

Usage 3:

(Research) Scientists are currently studying the signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms involved in the function of macula densa cells.

Sample Sentence:

Recent research has identified novel proteins expressed in macula densa cells, shedding light on their potential therapeutic targets.