What does ANP do?

What does ANP do?

• A. Reduces sodium absorption and increases urine volume.
• B. Increases sodium absorption.
• C. Reduces sodium absorption and increases urine volume.
• D. Inhibits urine formation.

Answer: (C)

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) promotes natriuresis and diuresis—it helps remove salt and water from the body to lower blood volume and pressure. ANP is released when the heart’s atria are stretched by increased blood volume. Its actions include reducing sodium reabsorption in the renal tubules (especially in the distal parts of the nephron) and increasing urine production. By promoting sodium loss, water follows osmotically, so urine volume rises. ANP also dampens the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system and lowers ADH, further enhancing diuresis. So the statement that ANP reduces sodium reabsorption and increases urine volume best captures its role.

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) promotes natriuresis and diuresis—it helps remove salt and water from the body to lower blood volume and pressure. ANP is released when the heart’s atria are stretched by increased blood volume. Its actions include reducing sodium reabsorption in the renal tubules (especially in the distal parts of the nephron) and increasing urine production. By promoting sodium loss, water follows osmotically, so urine volume rises. ANP also dampens the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system and lowers ADH, further enhancing diuresis. So the statement that ANP reduces sodium reabsorption and increases urine volume best captures its role.