Site of Glucose and Amino Acid Reabsorption in Kidney

Question

Reabsorption of glucose and amino acids in the kidney occurs at:

Select an answer

Reabsorption of glucose and amino acids in the kidney occurs at:

  1. PCT by cotransport with Na⁺ — Correct Answer
  2. DCT by ion channel
  3. PCT by GLUT-2 protein
  4. PCT by passive diffusion
Explanation:
Correct Answer: PCT by cotransport with Na⁺

Glucose and amino acids are reabsorbed in the Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT) via secondary active transport — specifically by cotransport with Na⁺ (Na⁺-dependent cotransporters).

Mechanism of Glucose Reabsorption
  • Luminal (apical) membrane: SGLT (Sodium-Glucose co-Transporter) — Na⁺ and glucose enter the cell together; driven by low intracellular Na⁺ maintained by Na⁺-K⁺-ATPase on basolateral side
  • Basolateral membrane: GLUT-2 facilitates glucose exit from cell into peritubular capillaries by facilitated diffusion
Mechanism of Amino Acid Reabsorption

Similar to glucose — co-transported with Na⁺ at the luminal membrane via specific amino acid cotransporters. Different transporters exist for different amino acid groups (acidic, basic, neutral).

Why Other Options Are Wrong
  • DCT by ion channel: DCT mainly handles Na⁺ reabsorption (via Na⁺-Cl⁻ cotransporter) and K⁺ secretion under aldosterone — glucose is NOT reabsorbed here
  • PCT by GLUT-2: GLUT-2 is on the basolateral side (exit from cell), not the luminal (entry from tubular fluid) side
  • PCT by passive diffusion: Glucose reabsorption is secondary ACTIVE transport, not passive diffusion

📚 About this Topic — Animal Physiology

This multiple choice question is from Animal Physiology, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Physiology to strengthen your preparation.

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