Osmotic Concentration and Dilution in the Mammalian Nephron

Abstract

The micropuncture evidence relating to the location and the mechanism for concentration and dilution of the urine is reviewed. As required by the countercurrent hypothesis for urine concentration, these data demonstrate that in the presence of antidiuretic hormone, the tubular urine is first concentrated in the descending limb of the loop of Henle and then diluted in the ascending limb of the loop before its final concentration in the collecting ducts. The loop of Henle is believed to function as a countercurrent multiplier system, and the vasa recta as countercurrent diffusion exchangers. Additional data are required during water diuresis before the course of events in this condition is established.