1. Together, the macula densa and juxtaglomerular cells comprise the juxtaglomerular complex. 2. The juxtaglomerular cells are also stimulated to release renin by signaling from the macula densa . 3. The macula densa serves as the detector, while the glomerulus acts as the effector. 4. Together, juxtaglomerular cells, extraglomerular mesangial cells and macula densa cells comprise the juxtaglomerular complex. 5. If less Na + is sensed by the macula densa , renin release by juxtaglomerular cells is increased. 6. This demonstrates the macula densa feedback, where compensatory mechanisms act in order to return GFR to normal. 7. The point where DCT contacts the cortical thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle is called macula densa . 8. The macula densa cell can also increase the blood pressure of the afferent arterioles by decreasing the synthesis of adenosine or ATP. 9. Hence, a decrease in blood pressure results in less NaCl present at the distal tubule, where the macula densa is located. 10. Beta blockade, especially of the beta-1 receptor at the macula densa , inhibits renin release, thus decreasing the release of aldosterone.
