The cells of the macula densa and juxtaglomerular cells are part of which complex?

The cells of the macula densa and juxtaglomerular cells are integral components of the juxtaglomerular complex, which plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure and filtration rates in the kidneys. The macula densa is a group of specialized epithelial cells located in the distal convoluted tubule that sense sodium chloride concentrations in the filtrate. It communicates with the juxtaglomerular cells, which are modified smooth muscle cells located in the walls of the afferent arterioles of the glomerulus.

When the macula densa detects low sodium levels, it signals the juxtaglomerular cells to release renin, an enzyme that initiates a cascade of events leading to the constriction of blood vessels and an increase in blood pressure. This relationship is fundamental for maintaining homeostasis and ensures that the kidneys function effectively to filter blood and create urine.

The other options refer to different structures in the kidney that do not encompass both the macula densa and juxtaglomerular cells. The renal corpuscle includes structures like the glomerulus and Bowman's capsule, while the nephron loop is a part of the nephron involved in the reabsorption of water and electrolytes. The term gl