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What Does the Kidney Do in the Excretory System?

The kidneys are paired bean-shaped organs that play a central role in the excretory system. They are located behind the abdominal cavity at the bottom of your ribcage on both sides of your back.

  1. Urinary Tract

    • The urinary tract is composed of both kidneys, two ureters (tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder), the bladder, and the urethra.

    Filtering Blood

    • Your kidneys help keep your blood clean by filtering out waste. Your kidneys process approximately 200 qt. of blood every day.

    Regulating Hormones

    • Your kidneys also regulate the levels of three important hormones: erythropoietin, which stimulates the production of red blood cells; renin, which controls blood pressure; and calcitriol, a form of vitamin D.

    Regulating Blood Pressure

    • Your kidneys excrete salt to maintain a normal sodium balance. Kidney disease is the leading cause of high blood pressure.

    Kidney Failure

    • Diabetes, high blood pressure, trauma, and poisons can contribute to kidney failure. Only one kidney is necessary for effective excretory system function.

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