Monday, January 10, 2011

Q: Describe 5 functions of angiotensin II ?


Answer: One of the functions of the kidney is to monitor blood pressure.

Kidney secretes renin.

Renin acts on angiotensinogen, splitting off a fragment called angiotensin I.

angiotensin I is cleaved by a angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) — producing angiotensin II.

Angiotensin II

  • constricts the walls of arterioles closing down capillary beds
  • stimulates the proximal tubules in the kidney to reabsorb sodium ions
  • stimulates the adrenal cortex to release aldosterone. (Aldosterone causes the kidneys to reclaim still more sodium and water).
  • increases the strength of the heartbeat;
  • stimulates the pituitary to release the vasopressin.