Eteiskammiolähetin

Eteiskammiolähetin is a Finnish term that translates to "atrial natriuretic peptide" (ANP) in English. It is a peptide hormone produced and secreted by the heart's atria. The primary function of ANP is to regulate blood pressure and fluid balance within the body.

When the atria of the heart are stretched, typically due to an increase in blood volume or pressure, they release ANP. This hormone then acts on the kidneys, promoting the excretion of sodium and water, which in turn reduces blood volume and lowers blood pressure. ANP also inhibits the release of renin, an enzyme involved in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system that regulates blood pressure, and it causes vasodilation, widening of blood vessels, which further contributes to lowering blood pressure.

ANP plays a crucial role in maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis. It acts as a counter-regulatory hormone to the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, which tends to increase blood pressure. By promoting sodium and water excretion and causing vasodilation, ANP helps to prevent excessive fluid retention and maintain a healthy blood pressure range. Its release is a protective mechanism against conditions that lead to elevated blood pressure and fluid overload, such as heart failure. The study of ANP has provided valuable insights into the intricate mechanisms controlling cardiovascular function and fluid balance.