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Physiology of Vasopressin Secretion

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Hydro Saline Metabolism

Part of the book series: Endocrinology ((ENDOCR))

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Abstract

Vasopressin (AVP) represents the key endocrine regulator of water balance. It is synthesized in the hypothalamic supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei and then transported to the neurohypophysis, where it is released in the bloodstream. Alterations in plasma osmolality represent the main input affecting AVP secretion, yet many other physiological and pathophysiological conditions can intervene in modulating its levels, as hypovolemia and hypotension. AVP primarily controls plasma osmolality and fluid volume by inducing synthesis and insertion of essential water transport proteins in the kidneys, thus reabsorbing water into blood circulation and reducing diuresis. Moreover, AVP exerts vascular and platelet control and intervenes in several metabolic pathways, including glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis. Furthermore, AVP stimulates the release of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). AVP exerts its multiple effects by binding to its receptors, classified in different subtypes depending on tissue expression, function, and second messengers. Disorders in AVP synthesis or action can lead to clinical syndromes characterized by water and electrolyte imbalance.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy

    Giovanna Mantovani, Alessandra Mangone & Elisa Sala

  2. Endocrinology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy

    Giovanna Mantovani, Alessandra Mangone & Elisa Sala

Authors
  1. Giovanna Mantovani
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  2. Alessandra Mangone
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  3. Elisa Sala
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Correspondence to Giovanna Mantovani .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Roma Open University, Rome, Italy

    Massimiliano Caprio

  2. Cardiovascular Research Center, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France

    Fabio Luiz Fernandes-Rosa

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Mantovani, G., Mangone, A., Sala, E. (2023). Physiology of Vasopressin Secretion. In: Caprio, M., Fernandes-Rosa, F.L. (eds) Hydro Saline Metabolism. Endocrinology. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-44628-4_2-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-44628-4_2-1

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, Cham

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-030-44628-4

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-030-44628-4

  • eBook Packages: Springer Reference MedicineReference Module Medicine

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