What percentage of nephrons are cortical nephrons responsible for?

Cortical nephrons make up a significant majority of the nephrons found in the kidneys, with approximately 85% of all nephrons classified as cortical. These nephrons are primarily located in the renal cortex and have shorter loops of Henle compared to juxtamedullary nephrons, which reach deeper into the medulla.

The predominance of cortical nephrons plays an important role in various functions of the kidney, including the filtration of blood and the regulation of electrolyte and fluid balance. Their anatomical characteristics contribute to their efficiency in handling day-to-day metabolic waste products and maintaining homeostasis. Understanding the distribution of nephron types helps clarify the overall functionality of the renal system and the physiologic responses to varying conditions.