Introduction
Kidneys have many tasks in the body and endocrine functions are some of the most important functions that they perform. The Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone mechanism helps the body to fight against chronic ailments as will be discussed in this essay. This paper seeks to discuss the endocrine functions of the kidneys as well as explain the RAAS functions in terms of treatment.
Endocrine functions of the kidney
The body has complex functions which are all managed by the endocrine system and the nervous system. There are three main functions of the endocrine system in the body. One of the very important functions is to regulate the metabolic rate in the body. Secondly, the system is also responsible for regulating the rate of chemical reactions in numerous body cells (Ma, Kam, Yan, & Lam, 2010). Lastly, it also enables the transportation of substances through the cellular membranes (Ma et al., 2010).
To perform its endocrine functions, the kidney has to produce very important hormones. These hormones include Erythropoietin, Calcitriol, and Rennin (Grossman, 2013). The kidneys have many functions that influence some of the processes in the body. The substance that facilitates these roles is known as prostaglandins (Grossman, 2013). The erythropoietin is a peptide hormone tasked with the responsibility to regulate a biological process known as Erythropoieses (Grossman, 2013). The final stage of vitamin D activation in the body takes place in the kidney. The process is called Calcitriol metabolism.
Lastly, Renin protein is released when a low blood flow in the kidneys is registered in the brain. Being an enzyme, its function is to speed up the conversion of plasmatic Angiotensinigen to Angiotensin 1 (Grossman, 2013). The process goes on to the conversion of Angiotensin 1 to Angiotensin 2 which is important in the synthesis of Aldosterone which in turn causes vasoconstriction (Grossman, 2013).
The Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone mechanism
From the process described above, Renin–Angiotensin–Aldosterone System RAAS’s end result is vasoconstriction, muscular hypotrophy and fibrosis (Ma et al., 2010). Muscular hypertrophy can either be on the vascular or cardiac muscular vessels. Renal and cardiovascular complications are caused by severe arterial stiffness as well as cardiac dysfunctions (Ma et al., 2010). The disease-prevention function of the RAAS blockage is very important, especially for hypertension patients. This blockage is also very beneficial for patients suffering from chronic diseases such as heart failure, stroke and diabetes (Ma et al., 2010). There has been a development in the RAAS blockade as attempts to come up with combination therapy are been made.
Historically, it is globally known that such combinations have more side effects than benefits. The two commonly used blockers in this case are the ACE inhibitors and the Angiotensin receptor blockers (Ma et al., 2010). However, this combination gives different results in different patients. The results differ as some patients record positive while others record negative results. Combination therapy is mostly associated with negative results. Nonetheless, the combination of ACEI/ARB is still one of the best options in treating heart failure with the underlying implications notwithstanding. Deciding which approach of RAAS is the best has been a health dilemma globally.
Conclusion
This paper has broadly discussed the functions of the kidneys and the endocrine system. The treatment aspect of RAAS has also been clearly discussed. In the paper the major process of converting enzymes into usable chemical substances in the bloodstream has also been explained in a clear and concise manner.
References
Ma, T.K., Kam, K., Yan, B.P., and Lam, Y. (2010). Renin–Angiotensin–aldosterone system blockade for cardiovascular diseases: current status. British Journal of Pharmacology, 160(6): 1273–1292.
Grossman, S. (2013). Porth’s Pathophysiology. Philadelphia PA: Lippincott Williams& Wilkins.