Consider the intricate process of acid excretion by the human kidney. Which statement accurately describes this process?
Filtered bicarbonate is effectively reabsorbed through anion transport mechanisms.
Intercalated cells within the distal tubule actively secrete hydrogen ions to facilitate bicarbonate reabsorption from the tubular fluid.
The complete reabsorption of filtered bicarbonate typically occurs within the initial half of the distal tubule.
Urine pH typically surpasses the pH of plasma.
Option 2 states that intercalated cells within the distal tubule actively secrete hydrogen ions to facilitate bicarbonate reabsorption from the tubular fluid. This statement accurately describes the process of acid excretion by the human kidney.
Intercalated cells are specialized cells within the distal tubule that play a crucial role in maintaining acid-base balance. They actively secrete hydrogen ions into the tubular fluid, which helps in acidifying the urine. At the same time, these cells facilitate the reabsorption of bicarbonate ions from the tubular fluid back into the bloodstream. This process is essential for maintaining proper pH levels in the body and preventing excessive loss of bicarbonate in the urine.
By actively secreting hydrogen ions and reabsorbing bicarbonate, intercalated cells contribute to the excretion of acids by the kidney. Therefore, option 2 is the correct statement explaining the process of acid excretion in the human kidney.