Question

Bowman's capsule is lined by (a) Ciliated epithelium (b) Squamous epithelium (c) Cuboidal epithelium (d) Cuboidal and columnar epithelium

Short answer

The correct answer is (b) Squamous epithelium.

Step-by-step solution

Identify The Function of Bowman's Capsule

Bowman's capsule is part of the nephron in the kidneys. Its purpose is to perform the first step in the filtration of blood to form urine. The specific type of epithelium lining Bowman’s capsule must facilitate this filtration.

Relate Function To Epithelium Type

Knowing that the function of Bowman's Capsule is filtration, the type of epithelium would ideally be thin and flat to allow substances to pass through. This characteristic is associated with squamous epithelium.

Choose The Correct Answer

Based on understanding of the form and function relationship in biological structures and the requirement for a thin, flat epithelium to allow filtration, the correct answer is squamous epithelium.

Key concepts

The Nephron: Structure and Function

The nephron is the basic structural and functional unit of the kidney. It plays a critical role in filtering blood and forming urine. Each kidney contains approximately one million nephrons, which collaboratively ensure the purification of blood several times a day.

Comprised of multiple sections, the nephron begins with the Bowman's capsule. This structure envelopes a cluster of capillaries known as the glomerulus, and together, they initiate the filtration process. Other main parts of the nephron include the renal tubule, which further processes the filtrate into urine by reabsorbing necessary substances and secreting wastes.

In essence, the nephron functions like a highly efficient filtration and reabsorption system. Without nephrons at work, the body would struggle to eliminate waste and balance essential minerals and electrolytes.

Filtration in the Nephron

Filtration in the nephron is a crucial process that leads to the formation of urine. It takes place in the Bowman's capsule, marking the start of a complex journey of blood purification. When blood flows into the kidneys, it reaches the glomerulus, a network of tiny blood vessels inside the Bowman's capsule.

Here, the filtration barrier allows water, ions, glucose, and small molecules to pass into the Bowman's space, forming what is known as glomerular filtrate. Larger molecules, such as proteins and blood cells, remain in the bloodstream. This selective permeability ensures that essential substances are reabsorbed later, while waste is excreted.

The process of filtration in the nephron is a highly specialized function that assists in maintaining homeostasis in the body by regulating fluid balance, blood pressure, and pH levels.

Squamous Epithelium: Structure and Role

Squamous epithelium consists of flat, thin cells that form the lining of certain organs and structures in the body. This type of epithelium serves a variety of functions but is particularly well-suited for areas requiring efficient transport of materials.

In the Bowman's capsule, the squamous epithelium's thinness facilitates the rapid passage of substances during the filtration process. Its flattened structure reduces the resistance for substances passing from the blood into the nephron, allowing for efficient filtration.

In addition to their role in filtration, squamous epithelial cells can be found in other areas such as the lining of blood vessels and alveoli in the lungs, where similar transport processes occur. This demonstrates their versatility and critical function in various bodily systems.