Which hormones work synergistically to retain water? antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and aldosterone aldosterone and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) aldosterone and cortisol atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and antidiuretic hormone (ADH)
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and aldosterone. These two hormones work synergistically to retain water in the body.
Explanation:
The body uses a delicate balance of hormones to regulate fluid and electrolyte levels to maintain homeostasis. The two key hormones involved in water retention are antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and aldosterone, both of which play crucial roles in regulating the amount of water and sodium in the kidneys.
- Antidiuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin, is produced in the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary gland. Its primary role is to conserve water by promoting water reabsorption in the kidneys, specifically in the distal convoluted tubule and collecting ducts. When the body detects increased osmolality (concentration of solutes in the blood), ADH is released, binding to receptors on the kidney cells to activate aquaporins (water channels). This allows more water to be reabsorbed into the bloodstream, reducing urine output and helping to maintain hydration.
- Aldosterone is produced by the adrenal glands, specifically in the zona glomerulosa of the adrenal cortex. It primarily acts on the kidneys by increasing sodium reabsorption in the distal tubules and collecting ducts. As sodium is reabsorbed, water follows due to osmosis, thus increasing water retention. Aldosterone is secreted in response to low blood pressure, low blood volume, or low sodium levels, all of which are signals that the body needs to retain water and sodium to restore balance.
When ADH and aldosterone are released simultaneously, they work together to retain water effectively. ADH enhances water reabsorption, while aldosterone increases sodium retention. The increased sodium in the bloodstream further drives water retention by osmosis, thus promoting overall fluid balance.
Together, ADH and aldosterone are critical in preventing dehydration and regulating blood volume and pressure, ensuring the body’s internal environment remains stable.