Weird body factsHiccups occur when a spasm contracts the diaphragm, causing an intake of breath that is suddenly stopped by the closure of the vocal cords (glottis).Increasing the level of carbon dioxide in the blood usually stops hiccups.

Learning goal

• To describe the role of the liver and the kidney in excreting waste.

You will show your understanding by:

• Outlining the parts of the kidney and describing what happens in each part

The Importance of Excreting Wastes

• The Liver– Metabolizes toxins (alcohol) so kidney can

excrete them– Processes harmful products from protein

metabolism for kidneys to excrete as urea

• Recall general amino acid structure

The KidneyStructure & Function

What is the main function of the kidney?

• The average body contains about 42 L of water. In one day, the kidneys filter 180 L of water and only 1.5 - 2 L appear in the urine.

• The kidney plays a vital role in– Extracellular fluid (ECF) regulation (remove

wastes like ammonia -> urea)– Acid-base balance– ECF osmolality ([ion] in fluid) and volume– Hormone production -> Vitamin D and

Erythropoietin (RBC production)

Location and structure of the kidney

Another interesting fact

• The human body makes anywhere from 1 to 3 pints of saliva every 24 hours.

The Nephron

Nephron structure video Nephron function video

Kidney Structure & Function

• The kidneys have three basic mechanisms for separating the various components of the blood: – filtration, reabsorption, and secretion.

• The structure of the kidney is such that it allows for this function

• Interactive video

Structure and Function of the Nephronpp. 346 - 356

• Your task:– Your group will be responsible for one area of the

nephron– You will need to illustrate its structure and outline

its function. Explain its function in all aspects of renal physiology: water and electrolyte balance, hormone production, pH balance, etc.