GFR regulation mechanisms primarily affect which of the following?

• A. The production of ATP in mitochondria
• B. The synthesis of glucose in the liver
• C. The rate of glycolysis in muscle cells
• D. The rate of filtration in the glomerulus

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the term 'GFR': GFR stands for Glomerular Filtration Rate, which is the rate at which blood is filtered by the glomeruli in the kidneys. It is a key indicator of kidney function.
2. Identify the role of GFR regulation: GFR regulation mechanisms ensure that the filtration rate in the glomerulus remains stable, even when blood pressure or other factors fluctuate. This is crucial for maintaining homeostasis in the body.
3. Eliminate unrelated options: The production of ATP in mitochondria, the synthesis of glucose in the liver, and the rate of glycolysis in muscle cells are not directly related to the filtration process in the kidneys. These processes are regulated by other mechanisms in the body.
4. Focus on the correct physiological process: GFR regulation mechanisms, such as autoregulation (myogenic response and tubuloglomerular feedback), hormonal control (e.g., renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system), and neural control, directly influence the rate of filtration in the glomerulus.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is related to the rate of filtration in the glomerulus, as this is the primary function affected by GFR regulation mechanisms.