What Hormones Are Produced by the Kidneys?
The kidneys produce several crucial hormones that regulate various bodily functions. These include:
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Erythropoietin (EPO): This hormone is primarily produced by the kidneys and is vital for the production of red blood cells. A deficiency can lead to anemia. (Cleveland Clinic, Your Hormones)
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Renin and Angiotensin: The kidneys play a central role in the renin-angiotensin system, a hormonal pathway that regulates blood pressure. Renin, an enzyme released by the kidneys, initiates this cascade. (NCBI, Springer)
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1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (Calcitriol): The kidneys convert inactive vitamin D into its active form, calcitriol, which is essential for calcium absorption and bone health. (Oxford Textbook of Endocrinology, ScienceDirect)
Additional Renal Hormone Contributions:
While not solely produced by the kidneys, they contribute to the circulating levels of:
- Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1): The kidneys contribute to the overall circulating levels of this growth factor, though it's primarily produced by the liver. (Oxford Textbook of Endocrinology)
It's important to note that the adrenal glands, located on top of the kidneys, produce their own set of hormones (cortisol, aldosterone, adrenaline) but are distinct endocrine organs. (Cleveland Clinic Adrenal Gland, Johns Hopkins Medicine). The kidneys' hormonal functions are crucial for maintaining overall homeostasis.
