What role does ADH play in the kidneys?

What role does ADH play in the kidneys?

• A. It decreases urine output
• B. It increases blood flow to the kidneys
• C. It suppresses glycogen formation
• D. It binds to receptors to produce aquaporins

Answer: (D)

ADH, or antidiuretic hormone, plays a crucial role in the kidneys primarily by binding to receptors on the cells of the kidney's collecting ducts, which leads to the production of aquaporins. These aquaporins are specialized water channel proteins that facilitate the reabsorption of water from the filtrate back into the bloodstream. When ADH levels are high, more aquaporins are inserted into the membrane of the kidney tubule cells, allowing for increased water reabsorption. This process ultimately results in concentrated urine and reduced urine output, helping the body maintain fluid balance and regulate osmolarity. The other options do not accurately represent the function of ADH. While it is true that increased levels of ADH can lead to decreased urine output, the mechanism involved is specifically through the action of aquaporins rather than a direct reduction of urine volume. ADH does not play a significant role in directly increasing blood flow to the kidneys; that is more related to other hormonal and physiological processes. Additionally, ADH is not involved in suppressing glycogen formation, as its primary functions are related to water retention and maintaining homeostasis in body fluids.

ADH, or antidiuretic hormone, plays a crucial role in the kidneys primarily by binding to receptors on the cells of the kidney's collecting ducts, which leads to the production of aquaporins. These aquaporins are specialized water channel proteins that facilitate the reabsorption of water from the filtrate back into the bloodstream. When ADH levels are high, more aquaporins are inserted into the membrane of the kidney tubule cells, allowing for increased water reabsorption. This process ultimately results in concentrated urine and reduced urine output, helping the body maintain fluid balance and regulate osmolarity.

The other options do not accurately represent the function of ADH. While it is true that increased levels of ADH can lead to decreased urine output, the mechanism involved is specifically through the action of aquaporins rather than a direct reduction of urine volume. ADH does not play a significant role in directly increasing blood flow to the kidneys; that is more related to other hormonal and physiological processes. Additionally, ADH is not involved in suppressing glycogen formation, as its primary functions are related to water retention and maintaining homeostasis in body fluids.