kidney_upper_slim part of part of epithelial cell of distal tubule kidney distal convoluted tubule epithelial cell https://cdn.humanatlas.io/digital-objects/2d-ftu/kidney-nephron/v1.2/assets/2d-ftu-kidney-nephron.png Kidney distal convoluted tubule epithelial cells, often referred to simply as distal convoluted tubule (DCT) cells, constitute a significant portion of the nephron -- the functional building unit of the kidney involved in filtration and reabsorption of substances from blood. The DCT epithelial cells form lining of the distal convoluted tubule, a segment of the nephron located after the loop of Henle and before the collecting tubule. These cells are characterized by unique morphological features such as small size, low height and fewer microvilli compared to proximal convoluted tubule epithelial cells. These cells perform a host of vital functions contributing to the regulation of extracellular fluid volume and electrolyte balance, blood pressure and pH. While the DCT is less prominent in water and sodium reabsorption compared to the proximal tubule and the loop of Henle, it plays a crucial role in fine-tuning the process. DCT epithelial cells are responsible for the final adjustments of sodium, potassium and calcium reabsorption, thereby affecting overall fluid and electrolyte balance, blood pressure regulation and bone health. The reabsorption process is regulated by hormones including aldosterone and parathyroid hormone. The distal convoluted tubule (DCT) also plays a significant role in acid-base homeostasis by secreting protons (H+) into the tubular fluid and reabsorbing bicarbonate ions (HCO3-), thus regulating the pH of the blood. The ability of DCT cells to adjust urine concentration plays a part in maintaining the body’s pH balance and preventing conditions like acidosis or alkalosis. In summary, kidney distal convoluted tubule epithelial cells perform functions that are crucial to maintaining body's homeostasis. (This extended description was generated by ChatGPT and reviewed by the CellGuide team, who added references, and by the CL editors, who approved it for inclusion in CL. It may contain information that applies only to some subtypes and species, and so should not be considered definitional.) Any epithelial cell of distal tubule that is part of some distal convoluted tubule. https://cellxgene.cziscience.com/cellguide/CL_1000849 KUPO:0001056 Homo sapiens distal convoluted tubule