What is the difference between DCT …

PCT: Proximal Convoluted Tubule

Proximal tubule connects the Bowmen’s capsule and the loop of Henle. Its inner epithelium is converted to a brush border in order to increase the efficiency of reabsorption. This tubule is basically responsible for reabsorbing all the nutrient back into the systemic blood from the filtrate. In addition, it also reabsorbs two-third of NaCl and water filtered into Bowman's capsule. Active transport of Na+ from the filtrate and into surrounding capillaries drives the reabsorption process.

DCT: Distal Convoluted Tubule

Distal convoluted tubule is located in between the loop of Henley and collecting duct. It does not have brush border in its lumen. Distal tubule helps to regulate pH of blood by regulating H+ ion concentration. Also, the regulation of calcium by hormones is taken place at distal convoluted tubule.

What is the difference between Proximal and Distal Tubule?

• Diameter of proximal tubule is larger than that of distal tubule.

• Epithelium of proximal tubule contains a brush boarder, whereas that of the distal tubule contains few short microvilli.

• Proximal tubule has an irregular or star shaped lumen. In contrast, distal tubule has perfectly round lumen.

• Proximal tubule connects the Bowman’s capsule and nephron loop (loop of Henle), whereas distal tubule connects nephron loop and collecting duct.

• Distal tubule helps to regulate pH and ions like potassium, sodium, calcium content in the blood, whereas proximal tubule regulates salt, water, organic solutes (glucose and amino acids), potassium, urea, phosphate and citrate contents.