Fluid metabolism

Fluid metabolism" denotes the collective processes that regulate the intake, distribution, and excretion of water and solutes in the body, maintaining internal fluid balance. This process involves an integrated network of sensors (such as baroreceptors and osmoreceptors), hormones (vasopressin/antidiuretic hormone, aldosterone, natriuretic peptides, angiotensin II), and organ systems (particularly the kidneys, hypothalamus, heart, and vasculature)[2][4][6][8]. Disruptions to fluid metabolism underlie conditions such as dehydration, edema, heart failure, and disorders of electrolyte balance. However, fluid metabolism is not a single molecular entity and cannot be targeted as such by drugs or classified as a canonical molecular target. "Fluid metabolism" should be interpreted as a physiological function, *not* a molecule, receptor, or specific therapeutic target. For therapeutic targeting or molecular profiling, focus should be on individual components, such as "Vasopressin receptor 2," "Renin-angiotensin system," "Atrial natriuretic peptide receptor," or specific ion channels and transporters involved in fluid balance[2][4][6][8].

Other names

Fluid homeostasisBody fluid regulationWater-electrolyte balance