Hormones of Heart, Kidney, and Gastrointestinal Tract
In this section, we delve into the hormones produced by non-endocrine glands and tissues, specifically in the heart, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract.
Heart: Atrial Natriuretic Factor (ANF)
The atrial wall of the heart secretes a peptide hormone known as atrial natriuretic factor (ANF). This hormone plays a critical role in regulating blood pressure. When blood pressure rises, ANF is released, leading to the dilation of blood vessels, which serves to lower blood pressure.
Kidney: Erythropoietin
The juxtaglomerular cells of the kidney produce erythropoietin, a peptide hormone that is essential for stimulating erythropoiesis, or the production of red blood cells (RBCs). This hormone ensures that the body has adequate oxygen-carrying capacity in response to low oxygen levels in the blood.
Gastrointestinal Tract Hormones
The gastrointestinal (GI) tract contains endocrine cells that secrete four major peptide hormones:
- Gastrin: Stimulates gastric glands to secrete hydrochloric acid and pepsinogen, aiding digestion.
- Secretin: Acts on the exocrine pancreas to stimulate the secretion of water and bicarbonate ions, neutralizing stomach acid in the small intestine.
- Cholecystokinin (CCK): Stimulates the pancreas to secrete digestive enzymes and the gall bladder to release bile, facilitating fat digestion.
- Gastric Inhibitory Peptide (GIP): Inhibits gastric secretion and motility, playing a role in regulating digestive processes and the absorption of nutrients.
Additionally, there are growth factors secreted by non-endocrine tissues that are vital for tissue growth, repair, and regeneration.