The reasoning: renin is the rate‑limiting step
Renin release increases with ↓ afferent arteriolar pressure (intrarenal baroreceptor), ↓ macula densa NaCl delivery (COX‑2/PGE₂, NO) and renal sympathetic β₁ stimulation (cAMP); suppressed by angiotensin II (short‑loop), ANP and high pressure. In granular cells, ↑ cAMP stimulates and ↑ Ca²⁺ inhibits release (the "calcium paradox").