Summary
Release of renin from the kidney in response to administration of frusemide was studied in foetal lambs, pregnant ewes and non-pregnant ewes. Plasma renin concentration rose to a greater extent in the foetus as compared with adult animals. The foetal kidney was capable of releasing renin at 110 days gestation.
The greater responsiveness of the foetal kidney to natriuretic administration in terms of renin release may indicate a role for the renin angiotensin system in the maintenance of foetal circulatory homeostasis.
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