Mnemonic

Nephron Segment Functions — GLARCD

A mnemonic for the main functional segments of the nephron in order.

Expansion

Glomerulus, Loop (of Henle), Ascending limb, Renal cortex collecting duct, Collecting Duct

Expansion

  • G — Glomerulus (filtration; produces ~180 L/day of filtrate)
  • PCT — Proximal Convoluted Tubule (bulk reabsorption: 65% Na⁺, glucose, amino acids, HCO3⁻)
  • L — Loop of Henle descending limb (water reabsorption; concentrating segment)
  • A — Ascending limb of Loop of Henle (Na⁺/K⁺/2Cl⁻ cotransport; impermeable to water)
  • DCT — Distal Convoluted Tubule (fine-tuning of Na⁺/Ca²⁺; aldosterone acts here)
  • CD — Collecting Duct (water reabsorption under ADH; acid-base regulation)