Final answer:
The atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) hormone acts to lower blood pressure by promoting sodium excretion and decreasing water reabsorption. It also suppresses the actions of certain hormones involved in blood pressure regulation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) hormone acts to lower blood pressure by promoting sodium excretion. ANP prevents sodium reabsorption by the renal tubules, leading to decreased water reabsorption and increased water loss through urine, which lowers blood pressure. Additionally, ANP suppresses the actions of hormones like aldosterone, ADH, and renin, further contributing to the decrease in blood pressure.