adrenomedullin


adrenomedullin

A peptide produced by vascular endothelium and the adrenal medulla; in experimental animal studies, it exerts a long-lasting hypotensive effect associated with reduced vascular resistance and inhibition of aldosterone secretion from the zona glomerulosa of the adrenal cortex. [adreno- + medulla + -in]

Adrenomedullin

Either of two (AM1, AM2) widely expressed peptides encoded by ADM on chromosome 11p15.4, which is thought to function as a hormone in the peripheral circulation.
Physiologic functions AM (AM2 is less well studied) is a potent vasodilator and involved in a broad range of physiologic activities including control of fluid and electrolyte homeostasis. In the kidney, it is diuretic and natriuretic, and inhibits aldosterone secretion by direct antagonism. AM inhibits basal ACTH secretion in the pituitary and brain, where it facilitates loss of plasma volume, thus complementing its hypotensive effect on peripheral vessels. It is involved in angiogenesis and increases cell tolerance of oxidative stress and hypoxic injury.
Angiogenesis AM has a positive impact on hypertension, myocardial infarction, and COPD.
Cognate receptors Calcitonin receptor like receptor (CALCRL), receptor activity-modifying proteins (RAMP2), and complexes, as well as calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) receptor.

adrenomedullin

(ă-drē″nō-mĕ-dŭl′ĭn) [ adreno- + medullin, a renal prostaglandin],

AM

A 52–amino acid regulatory peptide that influences many body functions. These functions include blood vessel dilation (lowering blood pressure), cellular growth, circulation, electrolyte balance, kidney function, and neurotransmission. The level of adrenomedullin in the blood is elevated above normal in patients with congestive heart failure, kidney failure, and diabetes mellitus complicated by vascular disease.