Question

Which part of the human nephron is primarily responsible for the reabsorption of glucose and amino acids?

• A. Bowman’s capsule
• B. Proximal convoluted tubule
• C. Loop of Henle
• D. Distal convoluted tubule

Hint:

In nephron function, associate the proximal convoluted tubule with the reabsorption of most nutrients and water, the loop of Henle with concentration gradients, and the distal tubule with fine-tuning ion balance.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The nephron is the functional unit of the kidney, responsible for filtering blood and forming urine. The proximal convoluted tubule (PCT) is the primary site for the reabsorption of glucose, amino acids, and other essential substances from the glomerular filtrate back into the bloodstream. The PCT reabsorbs nearly all glucose and amino acids, along with about 65–80% of water, sodium, and other ions, through active and passive transport mechanisms.
The roles of the other parts of the nephron are:
- Bowman’s capsule: Encapsulates the glomerulus and collects the filtrate but does not perform significant reabsorption.
- Loop of Henle: Primarily responsible for creating a concentration gradient in the medulla to facilitate water and ion reabsorption, not glucose or amino acids.
- Distal convoluted tubule: Regulates ion balance (e.g., sodium, potassium, calcium) and pH but reabsorbs minimal glucose or amino acids.
Thus, the part of the nephron primarily responsible for the reabsorption of glucose and amino acids is the proximal convoluted tubule.