TUBULAR SECRETION

Sasbel fisiologi

 The failure of tubule cells to reabsorb some solutes is an important means of clearing plasma of unwanted substances. A second such mechanism is tubular secretion essentially, reabsorption in reverse.

 Substances such as H+, K+, NH4+, creatinine, and certain organic acids either move into the filtrate from the peritubular capillaries through the tubule cells or are synthesized in the tubule cells and secreted. Thus, the urine eventually excreted contains both filtered and secreted substances. With one major exception (K+), the PCT is the main site of secretion, but the cortical parts of the collecting ducts and the late regions of the distal tubules are also active

Tubular secretion is important for

Disposing of substances, such as certain drugs and metabolites, which are tightly bound to plasma proteins. Such substances are not readily filtered and so must be secreted Eliminating undesirable substances or end products that have been reabsorbed by passive processes (urea and uric acid).

Tubular secretion is important for (cont..)

Ridding the body of excess K+. Because virtually all K+ present in the filtrate is reabsorbed in the PCT and ascending loop of Henle, nearly all K+ in urine is from aldosterone-driven active tubular secretion into the late DCT and collecting ducts.

Tubular secretion is important for (cont..)

Controlling blood pH. When blood pH drops toward the acidic end of its homeostatic range, the renal tubule cells actively secrete more H+ into the filtrate and retain more HCO3 (a base). As a result, the blood pH rises and the urine drains off the excess H+.

Conversely, when blood pH approaches the alkaline end of its range, Cl is reabsorbed instead of HCO3, which is allowed to leave the body in urine