Figure 2

Synthesis and release of AVP and copeptin in hypothalamus and pituitary. Pro-AVP is processed in the hypothalamus, followed by two distinct release-mechanisms for the anterior and posterior pituitary. During stress, a drop in blood pressure, or a change in osmotic pressure, AVP is released into the circulation. ACTH: adrenocorticotropic hormone; AVP: arginine vasopressin.