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Atrial-natriuretic peptide facts for kids

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Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP) (also called atrial natriuretic factor and atrial natriuretic hormone) is a vasodilator and a hormone. It is produced by the brain in response to increased blood pressure. It inhibits renin, an enzyme produced by the juxtaglomerular apparatus. This causes you to secrete more salt and water.

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  • ANP Granules in a Mouse Model

    Electron micrograph of ventricular (left) and atrial myocyte (right) showing location of ANP storage granules in a mouse model. Captured by Dr. Stephen C. Pang from Queen's University.

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