Synopses & Reviews
This comprehensive overview of vertebrate renal functions does not attempt to cover all studies of kidney function in detail, but focusses on the comparative aspects such as the comparison of mammalian and non-mammalian vertebrates, or renal development and adaptation in response to the changing requirements during evolution. Topics treated are renal morphology, relationship of kidney structure and function, ultrafiltration, secretion and particular renal functions in controlling and regulating fluid volume and solute concentrations. The cellular as well as subcellular events underlying these processes are considered. An integrated picture of comparative renal physiology is thus presented.
Synopsis
This volume emphasizes the comparative approach to under standing vertebrate renal function. I am convinced that this approach is of particular value in understanding both the details of renal function at the cellular and subcellular levels and the renal role in regulating fluid volumes and solute concentrations. My exposure to this approach first occurred during a student research experience in the laboratory of Wilbur H. Sawyer, who also provided an introduction to the works of Homer W. Smith and August Krogh. The importance of this approach was reinforced by doctoral and postdoctoral research in the laboratory of Bodil Schmidt-Nielsen. It has been confirmed through years of personal experience since then. My research and my understanding of renal function have been aided through the years by collaboration and discussion with numerous students and associates. Of particular impor tance in developing my views on comparative renal function, and especially on the relationship of structure to function, has been my long association with my colleague and friend, Eldon J. Braun. Donald S. Farner, who suggested the writing of this volume, provided valuable editorial assistance. Much of my personal research in this area has been supported over the years by grants from the United States National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health. The writing of this volume was completed while I was in Wiirzburg, Federal Republic of Germany, supported by a Senior U.S. Scientist Award from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation."
Table of Contents
Contents: Introduction.- Renal Morphology.- Initial Process in Urine Formation.- Transport of Inorganic Ions by Renal Tubules.- Transport of Fluid by Renal Tubules.- Transport of Organic Substances by Renal Tubules.- Diluting and Concentrating Processes.- Integrative Summary of Renal Function.- References.- Subject Index.