The nephron is the functional unit of the kidney, and it plays a key role in filtration, reabsorption, and secretion. Nephrons are made up of two main parts: the cortical nephron and the juxtamedullary nephron. The cortical nephron has its glomerulus in the outer region of the cortex, and its loop of Henle is short and stays mostly within the renal cortex. Around 85 percent of the nephrons in the human kidney are cortical nephrons, making them the most abundant type of nephron.
Juxtamedullary nephrons, which are fewer in number, have a longer loop of Henle that extends into the renal medulla and are involved in the concentration of urine. Thus, 85 Percent of the nephrons in the human kidney are cortical nephrons.