Antidiuretic hormone

Definition

Antidiuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin, is a hormone produced by the hypothalamus and stored in the pituitary gland that regulates water balance in the body by reducing urine production. ADH increases water reabsorption in the kidneys, which concentrates the urine and conserves water.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. ADH is released in response to high blood osmolarity or low blood volume to maintain homeostasis.
2. It acts on the kidneys' collecting ducts to increase their permeability to water.
3. Deficiency of ADH can lead to diabetes insipidus, characterized by excessive urination and thirst.
4. ADH also causes vasoconstriction, which helps increase blood pressure.
5. The secretion of ADH is regulated by osmoreceptors in the hypothalamus and baroreceptors in the cardiovascular system.

Review Questions

• What triggers the release of antidiuretic hormone?
• How does ADH affect kidney function?
• What condition results from a deficiency of ADH?

Related terms

Osmoreceptor: A sensory receptor primarily found in the hypothalamus that detects changes in osmotic pressure.

Diabetes Insipidus: A disorder caused by insufficient production or response to antidiuretic hormone, leading to excessive urine output.

Vasopressin Receptor: A receptor that binds with vasopressin (ADH) to mediate its effects on water reabsorption and vascular smooth muscle contraction.