Final answer:
ADH, or vasopressin, affects water balance by binding to V1 receptors that increase blood pressure, and V2 receptors in the kidneys that conserve water by allowing more water reabsorption.
Step-by-step explanation:
The antidiuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin, plays a crucial role in regulating the body's water balance. When ADH is released into the bloodstream, it binds to two main types of receptors: V1 and V2. The V1 receptors are primarily responsible for causing constriction of smooth muscle cells, which leads to the constriction of blood vessels and an increase in blood pressure. On the other hand, V2 receptors are found in the kidneys and their activation results in the insertion of aquaporins into the membranes of kidney tubules. This allows for increased water reabsorption from the urine back into the blood, thus reducing urine volume and conserving water in the body.