Question

Ralph is always thirsty and recently learned that he synthesizes mutated antidiuretic hormone (ADH). Apply your understanding of the role of ADH to explain why Ralph would be at higher risk for diabetes insipidus.

a) Ralph's mutated ADH promotes water retention, causing diabetes insipidus.
b) Ralph's mutated ADH inhibits water reabsorption, leading to increased urine output and thirst.
c) Ralph's mutated ADH stimulates insulin production, resulting in diabetes insipidus.
d) Ralph's mutated ADH has no impact on water balance or diabetes insipidus.

Answer 1

Ralph's mutated ADH affects the body's ability to reabsorb water, leading to increased urine output and persistent thirst, which are symptoms of diabetes insipidus, and can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

Step-by-step explanation:

Ralph would be at higher risk for diabetes insipidus because the antidiuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin, plays a crucial role in regulating the balance of fluids in the body by promoting water reabsorption in the kidneys. A mutation in ADH affects this regulation, leading to less water being reabsorbed from the kidney tubules into the bloodstream. As a result, there is an increase in urine output and persistent thirst due to the body's inability to retain water, which are characteristic symptoms of diabetes insipidus. Consequently, this condition can lead to severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances if not properly managed.