一歩一歩学ぶ生命科学
POINT!

Prior to the number of water channels increasing (at baseline), we will make the assumption that the subject is in homeostasis with normal plasma and urine osmolarities (isotonic) and urine volume.

Step 1: Suppose that the number of water channels increases. Step 2: With the increase in the number of water channels, water reabsorption from the tubule increases.

Step 3: With the increase in water reabsorption, diluted (hypotonic) solution enters the plasma. This decreases plasma osmolarity (diluted, hypotonic). Because diluted (hypotonic) solution leaves the tubule due to reabsorption, the fluid remaining in the tubule has an increased osmolarity (concentrated, hypertonic). Also, with the increase in water reabsorption, there is less water remaining in the tubule. Overall, the urine becomes concentrated and decreases in volume.

Challenge Quiz

1. With an increase in the number of water channels, water reabsorption from the tubule increases decreases .
2. With an increase in the number of water channels, urine volume increases decreases .
3. With an increase in the number of water channels, urine osmolarity increases decreases .
4. With an increase in the number of water channels, plasma osmolarity increases decreases .