atrial natriuretic factor


noun

any of several peptide hormones that are released by the atria of the heart in response to an abnormal increase in blood volume and that modulate blood pressure and the excretion of sodium, potassium, and water. Abbreviation: ANF
Also called atriopeptin, auriculin.

Medical definitions for atrial natriuretic factor

atrial natriuretic factor

n.

A peptide hormone released from cardiac atrial tissue that causes increased elimination of sodium by the kidney.