Question

Vasa recta refer to

• A. Rectum region of insects
• B. Blood capillaries in invertebrates
• C. A fine blood capillary network of afferent artriole
• D. A fine capillary network which runs parallel to Henle's loop
• E. Juxtaglomerular complex of nephrons

Answer 1

The correct option is

E

A fine capillary network that runs parallel to Henle's loop

Vasa recta refer to a fine capillary network that runs parallel to Henle's loop. The flow of filtrate in the two limbs of Henle’s loop is in opposite directions and thus forms a counter current. The flow of blood through the two limbs of the vasa recta is also in a countercurrent pattern. The proximity between Henle’s loop and vasa recta, as well as the countercurrent in them, helps in maintaining the concentration of urine.

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Figure : Vasa Recta