ANP and BNP are Secreted by the Heart in Response

Question

ANP and BNP are secreted by the heart in response to
A) distension of the heart walls.
B) low blood pressure.
C) tachycardia.
D) low blood volume.

Accepted Answer

ANP (atrial natriuretic peptide) and BNP (brain natriuretic peptide) are secreted by the heart in response to the distension of the heart walls, which occurs when there is an excess of blood volume. They promote the excretion of salt and water, which helps to reduce blood volume and blood pressure. Low blood pressure, tachycardia, and low blood volume do not directly stimulate the secretion of ANP and BNP.