renal outer medulla development

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The process whose specific outcome is the progression of the renal outer medulla over time, from its formation to the mature structure. The renal outer medulla is the region of the kidney that lies between the renal cortex and the renal inner medulla. [GOC:mtg_kidney_jan10]

Renal outer medulla development is a complex process that begins during the early stages of kidney development and continues throughout gestation. The outer medulla is the outermost region of the renal medulla, and it plays a crucial role in concentrating urine and maintaining electrolyte balance.

The development of the outer medulla is tightly regulated by a number of signaling pathways, including Wnt, Shh, and FGF pathways. These pathways control the proliferation, differentiation, and migration of various cell types, including nephrons, collecting ducts, and interstitial cells, which contribute to the formation of the outer medulla.

The process begins with the formation of the metanephric mesenchyme, a population of mesenchymal cells that will give rise to the nephrons and collecting ducts. These cells interact with the ureteric bud, a branch of the developing urinary tract, to initiate nephron formation.

As the nephrons develop, they extend into the metanephric mesenchyme, forming the nephrogenic zone. Within this zone, the nephron precursor cells undergo a series of inductive interactions and signaling events that lead to the formation of the glomerulus, proximal tubule, loop of Henle, and distal tubule.

Simultaneously, the ureteric bud branches and elongates, giving rise to the collecting ducts, which will ultimately connect to the nephrons and transport urine to the bladder. The collecting ducts also play a critical role in establishing the medullary interstitial fluid gradient, which is essential for urine concentration.

As the outer medulla develops, the interstitial cells, which are located between the nephrons and collecting ducts, differentiate and contribute to the formation of the vasa recta, the specialized blood vessels that supply the medulla. The vasa recta play a vital role in maintaining the medullary interstitial fluid gradient by countercurrent exchange of electrolytes and water.

The development of the outer medulla is a continuous process that extends beyond birth. During postnatal life, the outer medulla undergoes further maturation, including the formation of the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle, which plays a crucial role in sodium reabsorption.

Dysregulation of any of the signaling pathways or cellular processes involved in renal outer medulla development can lead to congenital kidney defects, such as polycystic kidney disease and renal dysplasia. These conditions can result in impaired kidney function and a range of clinical manifestations, including hypertension, anemia, and electrolyte imbalances.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (6)