ATRIAL NATRIURETIC PEPTIDE

atrial natriuretic peptide: translation

A polypetide hormone found mainly in the atrium of many species of vertebrates. It is released in response to atrial stretching, and thus to elevated blood pressure. ANP acts to reduce blood pressure through stimulating the rapid excretion of sodium and water in the kidneys (reducing blood volume), by relaxing vascular smooth muscle (causing vasodilation), and through actions on the brain and adrenal glands.