Vasopressin

Definition

Vasopressin, also known as antidiuretic hormone (ADH), is a peptide hormone that regulates water balance in the body by increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys. It is produced in the hypothalamus and released from the posterior pituitary gland.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Vasopressin increases the permeability of kidney tubules to water, which helps concentrate urine and reduce water loss.
2. It acts primarily on the collecting ducts of nephrons in the kidneys.
3. Vasopressin release is stimulated by high plasma osmolarity and low blood volume.
4. It plays a crucial role in maintaining blood pressure by regulating fluid balance.
5. A deficiency in vasopressin can lead to diabetes insipidus, characterized by excessive urination and thirst.

Review Questions

• What triggers the release of vasopressin from the posterior pituitary gland?
• How does vasopressin affect the permeability of kidney tubules?
• What condition results from a deficiency of vasopressin?

Related terms

Aldosterone:

A hormone that increases sodium reabsorption in the kidneys, helping regulate blood pressure and fluid balance.

Nephron: The functional unit of the kidney responsible for filtering blood and forming urine.

Plasma Osmolarity: A measure of solute concentration in the blood, influencing vasopressin release.