Anatomy and Physiology Flashcards

Which hormone is primarily responsible for regulating blood glucose levels by promoting cellular glucose uptake?

Answer: Insulin

Insulin, secreted by beta cells of the pancreatic islets, signals cells to take up glucose, lowering blood sugar.

Which part of the nephron is responsible for the majority of reabsorption of filtered substances?

Answer: Proximal convoluted tubule

The proximal convoluted tubule reabsorbs approximately 65% of filtered water, sodium, glucose, and amino acids.

What is the functional unit of the kidney?

Answer: Nephron

The nephron, comprising the glomerulus and renal tubule system, is the structural and functional unit that produces urine.

Which cranial nerve is responsible for most of the parasympathetic innervation of the thoracic and abdominal organs?

Answer: Vagus nerve (CN X)

The vagus nerve (CN X) provides parasympathetic innervation to the heart, lungs, and most abdominal organs.

In a long bone, where does endochondral ossification occur during growth in length?

Answer: Epiphyseal plate

The epiphyseal plate (growth plate) is the zone of cartilage where endochondral ossification drives longitudinal bone growth.

Which muscle is the primary mover (agonist) during elbow flexion?

Answer: Biceps brachii

The biceps brachii is the prime mover of elbow flexion, especially when the forearm is supinated.

What term describes movement of a limb away from the midline of the body?

Answer: Abduction

Abduction moves a limb laterally away from the body's midline, as when raising the arm to the side.