AEMCA Practice Exam

Which type of nephron is primarily located in the renal cortex?

1. Juxtamedullary nephron

2. Vasa recta nephron

3. Segmental nephron

4. Cortical nephron

The correct answer is: Cortical nephron

Cortical nephrons are primarily located in the renal cortex and are characterized by their shorter loops of Henle that do not extend deeply into the medulla. This anatomical structure allows cortical nephrons to be efficient at filtering blood and producing urine while they primarily operate in the cortical region of the kidney. These nephrons play a major role in the reabsorption of water and solutes, significantly contributing to maintaining the body’s homeostasis. In contrast, juxtamedullary nephrons, while they also function in filtration and urine production, are positioned at the junction of the cortex and medulla and have longer loops of Henle that dive deeper into the medulla, which is essential for concentrating urine. The terms "vasa recta nephron" and "segmental nephron" do not refer to specific nephron types recognized in anatomical studies of the kidney; the vasa recta refers to the blood vessels associated with the nephron, while segmental nephron is not a common classification used in nephron studies. Thus, identifying the cortical nephron as the answer accurately reflects its predominantly cortical location, distinguishing it from other nephron types.