Distal convoluted tubule

Clin J Am Soc Nephrol. 2014 Dec 5;9(12):2147-63. doi: 10.2215/CJN.05920613. Epub 2014 May 22.

Abstract

The distal convoluted tubule is the nephron segment that lies immediately downstream of the macula densa. Although short in length, the distal convoluted tubule plays a critical role in sodium, potassium, and divalent cation homeostasis. Recent genetic and physiologic studies have greatly expanded our understanding of how the distal convoluted tubule regulates these processes at the molecular level. This article provides an update on the distal convoluted tubule, highlighting concepts and pathophysiology relevant to clinical practice.

Keywords: Na transport; distal tubule; mineral metabolism; potassium channels; renal physiology.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Calcium / metabolism
  • Cations, Divalent / metabolism*
  • Epithelial Sodium Channels / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Kidney Tubules, Distal / anatomy & histology
  • Kidney Tubules, Distal / metabolism
  • Kidney Tubules, Distal / physiology*
  • Magnesium / metabolism
  • Potassium / metabolism*
  • Potassium Channels, Inwardly Rectifying / metabolism
  • Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases / metabolism
  • Renal Reabsorption / physiology*
  • Signal Transduction
  • Sodium / metabolism*
  • Sodium Chloride / metabolism*
  • Solute Carrier Family 12, Member 3 / metabolism

Substances

  • Cations, Divalent
  • Epithelial Sodium Channels
  • Potassium Channels, Inwardly Rectifying
  • Solute Carrier Family 12, Member 3
  • Sodium Chloride
  • Sodium
  • OXSR1 protein, human
  • Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases
  • STK39 protein, human
  • Magnesium
  • Potassium
  • Calcium