Which structure in the mammalian kidney is responsible for maintaining the osmotic gradient in medulla of the kidney?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The loop of Henle, specifically the descending and ascending limbs, is responsible for establishing and maintaining the concentration gradient in the medulla of the kidney. This is achieved through the countercurrent exchange mechanism, where the descending limb passes through an increasingly hypertonic environment while the ascending limb actively transports ions out, creating a gradient. This gradient is important for water reabsorption and concentration of urine.

Which Structure in the Mammalian Kidney Is Responsible for Maintaining