kidney_upper_slim part of part of epithelial cell meso-epithelial cell epithelial cell of distal tubule FMA:70981 KUPO:0001055 Epithelial cells of the distal tubule, also known as distal tubular epithelial cells, are located in the last portion of the renal tubule, beyond the loop of Henle, in the kidneys. These specialized cells play a critical role in the regulation of various electrolytes and homeostasis in the body. Epithelial cells of distal tubules help maintain the body's balance of water, sodium, potassium, and hydrogen ions to ensure body fluids' right concentration. These cells exhibit exceptional functional plasticity. They are equipped with ion channels, transporters, and pumps that facilitate selective reabsorption and excretion of electrolytes. They are actively involved in the reabsorption of Sodium ions and the secretion of Potassium and Hydrogen ions, thus playing a significant role in maintaining the acid-base balance in the blood. Specifically, these cells express numerous sodium channels, including the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC), which helps moderate the reabsorption of sodium and water from the urine. (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.) https://cellxgene.cziscience.com/cellguide/CL_0002305 An epithelial cell of the distal convoluted tubule of the kidney that helps regulate systemic levels of potassium, sodium, calcium, and pH. kidney distal tubule epithelial cell nephron tubule epithelial cell kidney cortex tubule cell distal tubule