Renal Papilla Function

A professor of physiology, cellular biophysics, and medicine, Qais Al-Awqati works at Columbia University and is a member of the American Society of Clinical Investigation, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and the Association of American Physicians. The recipient of several awards and distinctions, Qais Al-Awqati is known for his research into renal epithelial cells and stem cells located in the kidney’s papilla.

1. Renal Papilla Function By Qais Al- Awqati

2. Introduction A professor of physiology, cellular biophysics, and medicine, Qais Al- Awqati works at Columbia University and is a member of the American Society of Clinical Investigation, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and the Association of American Physicians. The recipient of several awards and distinctions, Qais Al- Awqati is known for his research into renal epithelial cells and stem cells located in the kidney’s papilla.

3. About The Renal Papilla The renal papilla is located at the top of the medullary pyramids. Papillary ducts are located just below the apex. From the renal papilla, the renal pyramid leads into the calyces. The function of the papilla is to transport urine from the kidney’s cortical section to the lumen of a calyx, where the urine is collected and later discharged into the body’s bladder. The papilla contains multiple apertures through which droplets of fluid can pass, giving it the appearance of a sieve.

4. Conclusion Disorders relating to the renal papilla are often associated with nephrotoxins , that is, toxic chemicals that cause damage to the kidney. If the renal papilla becomes damaged due to nephrotoxins , this may result in cells dying, also known as renal papillary necrosis. This may occur due to dehydration in combination with the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or phenylbutazone .