CHF: circulatory homeostasis gone awry.
The role of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is integral to salt and water retention, particularly by the kidneys. Over time, positive sodium balance leads first to intra- and then to extravascular volume expansion, with subsequent symptomatic heart failure. This report examines the role of the RAAS in regulating a less well recognized component essential to circulatory homeostasis--central blood volume. The regulation of central blood volume draws on integrative cardiorenal physiology and a key role played by the RAAS in its regulation. In presenting insights into the role of the RAAS in regulating central blood volume, this review also addresses other sodium-retaining states with a predisposition to edema formation, such as cirrhosis and nephrosis.
Weber
Karl T
KT
Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA. KTWeber@utmem.edu
Burlew
Brad S
BS
Davis
Richard C
RC
Newman
Kevin P
KP
D'Cruz
Ivan A
IA
Hawkins
Ralph G
RG
Wall
Barry M
BM
Parker
Robert B
RB
D001775:Blood Circulation / Q000502:physiology; D001810:Blood Volume / Q000502:physiology; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000097:blood* / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006706:Homeostasis / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D009318:Natriuresis / Q000502:physiology; D011187:Posture / Q000502:physiology; D012084:Renin-Angiotensin System / Q000502:physiology