Juxtaglomerular Apparatus: The juxtaglomerular apparatus is a specialized structure formed by the distal convoluted tubule and the glomerular afferent arteriole. It is located near the vascular pole of the glomerulus and its main function is to regulate blood pressure and the filtration rate of the glomerulus. The juxtaglomerular apparatus consists of three cell types. They are the maculadensa, a part of the distal convoluted tubule of the same nephron. juxtaglomerular cells, which secrete renin, specialized smooth muscle cells of the afferent arteriole, which supplies blood to the glomerulus.

It contains specialized cells of the afferent arteriole known as juxtaglomerular cells. These cells contain the enzyme renin that can sense blood pressure. When glomerular blood flow (or glomerular blood pressure or glomerular filtration rate) decreases, it activates juxtaglomerular cells to release renin.

Functions of Juxtaglomerular Apparatus

• It is an apparatus which is located next to glomerulus. It is the structure in the kidney which regulates the function of nephrons.
• It consists of cells which secrete renin. It regulates the flow of blood in the kidney.

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By Team Learning Mantras