Neural regulation of renal tubular sodium reabsorption and renin secretion: integrative aspects.

Efferent renal sympathetic nerve activity plays an important role in the regulation of renal function. Via its direct influence on renal tubular sodium reabsorption throughout the entire mammalian nephron, alterations in efferent renal sympathetic nerve activity represent an important physiological contribution to the overall role of the kidney in the regulation of external sodium balance and the defense against sodium deficit and surfeit. Abnormalities of this mechanism can lead to inappropriate renal sodium retention and augmentation of renin secretion, two factors which are capable of contributing to the development and maintenance of hypertension.