: a proteolytic enzyme of the kidney that plays a major role in the release of angiotensin

Examples of renin in a Sentence

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The latter is for medicines that block the B1 receptors found in the heart, which when activated, focus on elevated heart rate, increasing pumping force and releasing a kidney enzyme called renin. Krystal Nurse, USA TODAY, 13 Jan. 2025 The kidneys respond by secreting a substance, renin, which starts a cascade (the renin-angiotensin system) that causes the blood pressure to go up. Dr. Keith Roach, oregonlive, 8 Sep. 2023

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, from Latin renes

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of renin was in 1903

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Cite this Entry

“Renin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/renin. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

renin

noun
re·​nin
ˈrē-nən also ˈren-ən
: a proteolytic enzyme of the blood that is produced and secreted by the juxtaglomerular cells of the kidney and hydrolyzes angiotensinogen to angiotensin I

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