Definition

Noun: 1. A peptide hormone: A hormone produced primarily by the hypothalamus and released from the posterior pituitary gland. Its primary physiological roles are to regulate the body's retention of water by reducing urine production and to constrict blood vessels, which increases blood pressure.

Usage

• Scientific/Medical Context: The term is used almost exclusively in biological, physiological, and medical contexts to describe this specific hormone and its functions.
  • The doctor explained that a deficiency in vasopressin can lead to diabetes insipidus, a condition characterized by excessive thirst and urination.
  • The study investigated the role of vasopressin in social bonding and stress response.
• Referring to its Function: It is commonly discussed in relation to its antidiuretic and vasoconstrictive effects.
  • In response to dehydration, the body releases more vasopressin to conserve water.

Advanced Usage

• "Arginine vasopressin (AVP)": This is the full, specific name for the hormone in humans and most mammals, often used in formal research literature.
  • The paper focused on the receptors that bind arginine vasopressin.
• "Vasopressin analogue" or "Vasopressin receptor antagonist": Refers to synthetic molecules designed to mimic or block the action of vasopressin, used therapeutically.
  • The patient was given a vasopressin analogue to manage septic shock.

Variants and Related Words

• Antidiuretic hormone (ADH): This is the most common alternative name for vasopressin, emphasizing its water-conserving function.
• Desmopressin: A synthetic analogue of vasopressin used as a medication to treat diabetes insipidus and bedwetting.

Synonyms

• Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) (primary synonym)
• Arginine vasopressin (AVP) (scientific synonym)

Related Phrases / Compound Terms

• Vasopressin secretion: The process of releasing the hormone.
• Vasopressin levels: The concentration of the hormone in the blood.
• Vasopressin injection: A method of administering the hormone as a drug.

Noun

1. hormone secreted by the posterior pituitary gland (trade name Pitressin) and also by nerve endings in the hypothalamus; affects blood pressure by stimulating capillary muscles and reduces urine flow by affecting reabsorption of water by kidney tubules