Blood pressure

Question 1

Where are blood pressure changes detected

Answer 1

Baroreceptors on the aortic arch and the carotid sinus

Question 2

When high blood pressure is detected what happens

Answer 2

Baroreceptors trigger the autonomic nervous system which acts to reduce heart rate and cardiac contractility via parasympathetic fibres (vagus nerve). This then reduces blood pressure

Question 3

When low blood pressure is detected what happens

Answer 3

Baroreceptors trigger the sympathetic response. This then stimulates an increase in heart rate and cardiac contractility leading to increased blood pressure

Question 4

Are baroreceptors a long term regulator of blood pressure

Answer 4

No - the mechanism that triggers baroreceptors resets itself once a more adequate blood pressure is restored.

Question 5

What is the long term mechanism that controls blood pressure

Answer 5

Renin - angiotensin

Question 6

Function of renin

Answer 6

Converts angiotensinogen to angiotensin 1

Question 7

What does ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) do

Answer 7

Converts angiotensin 1 to angiotensin 2

Question 8

Function of angiotensin 2

Answer 8

Vasoconstrictor. Acts on the adrenal gland to stimulate release of aldosterone. Aldosterone acts on the kidneys to stimulate reabsorption of salt and water

Question 9

Where is ACE produced

Answer 9

Lungs

Question 10

Where is renin produced and released

Answer 10

Kidneys