Vasopressin (antidiuretic Hormone): These Are Its Functions
Hormones are chemical compounds that, when released by the endocrine glands in the blood or nervous system of living beings, exert modulating effects on the functions of other cells and body structures.
One of the most relevant and well-known human hormones is vasopressin or antidiuretic hormone, which is essential for fluid retention or the stress response, among other phenomena. In this article We will analyze the properties and functions of vasopressin
Vasopressin is also known as “argipressin”, “arginine vasopressin” and “antidiuretic hormone” As the latter name suggests, this hormone performs functions related to the reabsorption of water molecules through the kidneys and the reduction of the amount of urine accumulated in the body.
It is an oligopeptide, that is, a molecule composed of the union of a small number of amino acids, specifically 9. On the other hand, polypeptides are sets of between 10 and 100 amino acids, while we speak of “proteins” to refer to to groupings of more than 100 molecules of this type.
Specifically, vasopressin contains an amino group (-NH2), cysteine (Cys), tyrosine (Tyr), phenylalanine (Phe), glutamine (Gln), asparagine (Asn), proline (Pro), arginine (Arg) and a carboxyl group (-COOH).
Vasopressin is secreted by the neurohypophysis, the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland, in response to changes in osmotic concentration and blood volume. Although most of the vasopressin we produce is released into the bloodstream, its effects on the brain also explain some of its functions.
The pituitary gland or pituitary gland is one of the main endocrine glands It fulfills an intermediary function between the hypothalamus, which initiates the secretion of hormones, and the rest of the endocrine system by sending biochemical signals.
This structure is made up of two lobes: the anterior or adenohypophysis and the posterior or neurohypophysis. While the posterior pituitary stores the hormones vasopressin and oxytocin (related to motherhood and orgasm), the adenohypophysis secretes thyrotropin-releasing hormones, corticotropin, gonadotropins and growth hormone.
Functions of this hormone
The main functions of vasopressin They are associated with their ability to regulate the activity of the kidneys; However, this hormone also has effects on other systems of the body, including the cardiovascular and central nervous system.
1. Fluid retention and reabsorption
Vasopressin increases the permeability of kidney cells, increasing the amount of water they absorb; This function is called “antidiuresis.” Such a process also implies an increase in the concentration of urine due to the lower availability of liquid in the excretory system.
On the other hand, antidiuretic hormone also reabsorbs urea, the main chemical compound in urine, made up of body waste products. This prevents the frequency of urination from becoming excessive.
2. Maintenance of homeostatic balance
Homeostasis (self-regulation of the internal environment of organisms) depends on a large number of factors; Among these is the activity of vasopressin. If homeostatic mechanisms fail, problems such as dehydration and acidosis can occur.
This hormone helps maintain the electrolyte balance of the bloodstream by retaining and reabsorption of adequate amounts of water, glucose and sodium among other chemical compounds relevant to the functioning of the body.
Another of the most notable effects of vasopressin is the increase in blood pressure. This function occurs as a consequence of the vasoconstrictive properties of this hormone, which have a moderate intensity. The potentiating role of vasopressin on hormones and neurotransmitters associated with stress is also important to explain this effect.
4. Modulation of the stress response
Although scientific research has not fully confirmed it at this time, there is strong evidence that vasopressin has a modulating effect on the body’s response to stressful (or anxiety-inducing) situations.
Antidiuretic hormone regulates the release of corticotropin-releasing hormone, also called “adrenocorticotropic hormone-releasing hormone.” This compound promotes secretion of corticosteroids such as aldosterone and cortisol mainly associated with vasoconstriction and the stress response by the adrenal gland.
5. Reduction in the sensation of pain
In recent years, the involvement of vasopressin in the modulation of pain sensations has begun to be studied. It is believed that this hormone could act as a pain reliever ; This would imply that, when released under certain conditions, vasopressin would have reinforcing effects due to the positive sensations associated with its secretion.
6. Formation of sexual and social bonds
Studies with rodents suggest that vasopressin release also acts as a enhancer of social bonds, especially those of a couple In humans, these effects have been found especially in men and are related to the direct release of the antidiuretic hormone in the reward circuits of the central nervous system.
