Question

Name a factor that cause vasodilation?

Answer 1

Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP):

ANP is the first hormone that was isolated from the heart and acts as a hypotensive and potent diuretic/natriuretic factor.

1. It is a small peptide released by the heart when atrial stretch and increased systemic blood pressure is experienced.
2. It then stimulates vasodilation of the afferent arteriole of the glomerulus.
3. Atrial Natriuretic peptides comprises an intra-molecular ring structure, that is associated with two cysteine residues and C-terminal and N-terminal extensions from them.
4. It increases glomerular filtration and causes increased renal excretion of sodium and water thereby regulating blood pressure.