vasopressin

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noun va·so·pres·sin \ ˌvā-zō-ˈpre-sᵊn \

Definition of vasopressin

:a polypeptide hormone secreted by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland or obtained synthetically that increases blood pressure and decreases urine flow — called also antidiuretic hormone

Recent Examples of vasopressin from the Web

In his own research with rats and voles, vasopressin promoted some maternal behaviors.

— andrea marks, Scientific American, "Why Some Mice Seem to Make Bad Parents," 26 June 2017
The compound seems to work by targeting the action of a receptor called the type-2 vasopressin receptor, which is involved in the disease, the researchers said.

— Fox News, "Snake solution: Dangerous venom could fight kidney disease," 23 June 2017
But when rats have young, a surge of vasopressin helps push them to start caring for their pups.

— carl zimmer, New York Times, "Why Are Some Mice (and People) Monogamous? A Study Points to Genes," 19 Apr. 2017
Hormones like vasopressin and oxytocin are key in helping create a sense of closeness in relationships and play a starring role in both scenarios.

— amy paturel, Discover Magazine, "The Neuroscience of Seeing an Ex," 10 Mar. 2017
For example, in both species the hormone oxytocin modulates maternal bonding (loving) behaviors, while vasopressin accomplishes the task in males.

— brandon keim, WIRED, "Animals and Love: Exclusive Excerpt From Exultant Ark," 16 June 2011

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'vasopressin.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of vasopressin

from Vasopressin, a trademark

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1927

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Medical Dictionary

vasopressin

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noun va·so·pres·sin \ ˌvā-zō-ˈpres-ᵊn \

medical Definition of vasopressin

:a polypeptide hormone that is secreted together with oxytocin by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland, is also obtained synthetically, and increases blood pressure and exerts an antidiuretic effect — called also antidiuretic hormone, beta-hypophamine; see arginine vasopressin, lysine vasopressin, pitressin

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about vasopressin

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vasopressin

Definition of vasopressin

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Origin and Etymology of vasopressin

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vasopressin

medical Definition of vasopressin

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