Human kidneys contain a finite number of nephrons that is
established before birth and does not increase thereafter. Large autopsy,
imaging, and histological studies have shown that nephron number varies widely
between individuals and that average nephron counts differ between populations
studied in different regions of the world.

When comparing populations with different mean
nephron numbers, which explanation most strongly accounts for these observed
differences?

Question

Human kidneys contain a finite number of nephrons that is
established before birth and does not increase thereafter. Large autopsy,
imaging, and histological studies have shown that nephron number varies widely
between individuals and that average nephron counts differ between populations
studied in different regions of the world.

When comparing populations with different mean
nephron numbers, which explanation most strongly accounts for these observed
differences?

Answer

Random
technical variation in nephron counting methods

Answer

Differences
in adult kidney size due to body habitus

Answer

Differences
in fetal growth conditions and maternal health during pregnancy

Answer

Age-related
nephron loss occurring decades after birth

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Human kidneys contain a finite number of nephrons that is established before bi...

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