Atrial Natriuretic Hormone, the Renin–Aldosterone Axis, and Blood Pressure–Electrolyte Homeostasis

IN the past 25 years there has been tremendous growth in our understanding of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system and of related intrarenal mechanisms for regulating electrolyte balance and blood pressure. Moreover, exciting new research now indicates the existence of a complementary hormone, a natriuretic and vasorelaxant peptide that is secreted by the atria. The nature and possible need for a natriuretic hormone has been the subject of long-standing debate. To give a perspective on the issues, I will first review what is known about the endocrine control of electrolyte balance and blood pressure. The Coregulation of Blood Pressure and Sodium Balance . . .