Atrial Natriuretic Factor (ANF), also known as Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP), is a hormone produced and released predominantly by the cells of the heart's atria, the upper chambers.
ANF plays a significant role in regulating fluid balance and blood pressure in the body. Upon stretching of the atrial walls due to increased blood volume or pressure, the release of ANF is stimulated. It acts on various target organs to counteract the effects of excessive fluid accumulation and high blood pressure.
The primary physiological effects of ANF are diuresis, natriuresis, and vasodilation. Diuresis refers to increased urination, while natriuresis refers to the increased excretion of sodium in urine. These effects help to reduce blood volume and pressure, promoting the elimination of excess fluids from the body.
ANF achieves its effects by interacting with specific receptors in the kidneys, blood vessels, and adrenal glands. It inhibits sodium reabsorption in the kidneys, leading to increased sodium excretion. Additionally, ANF causes relaxation of blood vessels, resulting in vasodilation and decreased peripheral resistance, which helps to lower blood pressure.
The overall effect of ANF is to maintain fluid balance and lower blood pressure, primarily by decreasing blood volume. It is particularly important in the regulation of blood pressure in response to changes in blood volume. ANF is also involved in other physiological processes, such as the inhibition of renin secretion, which contributes to its blood pressure-lowering effects.
