Atrial natriuretic factor (1-28) (human, porcine)

The atrial natriuretic peptide: a changing view.[Pubmed:11677356]

J Hypertens. 2001 Nov;19(11):1923-31.

The atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), a component of the natriuretic peptide family, was discovered in 1981 when de Bold and his coworkers observed a natriuretic effect induced by infusion of atrial extracts in rats. Subsequently, an impressive amount of research has been carried out in order to identify the structure of the active peptide and its receptors, to characterize the biological functions of ANP and its involvement in the pathophysiology of diseases and, finally, its direct contributory role in the pathogenesis of some cardiovascular disorders. ANP plays a key role in the regulation of salt and water balance, as well as of blood pressure homeostasis. In addition, ANP is involved in the pathophysiology of hypertension and heart failure, and exerts a cellular antiproliferative effect in the cardiovascular system. More recently, a direct contributory role of ANP in the development of hypertension and of cerebrovascular disorders has been suggested by the use of molecular genetic approaches. Therefore, our understanding of the pathophysiologic relevance of ANP has changed over time, finally leading to the identification of ANP as a potential determinant of cardiovascular diseases, rather than as a simple marker of cardiac and vascular dysfunctions. This novel view of ANP may open interesting research pathways.

Atrial natriuretic factor (auriculin): structure and biological effects.[Pubmed:2941526]

J Clin Hypertens. 1985 Jun;1(2):187-98.

Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) is a recently discovered peptide present in secretory granules specifically found in atrial muscle cells. Multiple structurally related peptides have been isolated from atrial tissues, all of which are derived from a common 152-amino-acid precursor. ANF induces profound natriuresis and diuresis in experimental animals and also causes relaxation of precontracted vascular smooth muscle. ANF has striking renal hemodynamic actions (most consistently an increased glomerular filtration rate), which probably explain its natriuretic effects. ANF also can inhibit renin secretion in vivo and causes direct inhibition of basal and stimulated aldosterone production. It lowers arterial blood pressure, probably reflecting in part its vasorelaxant actions, and this effect is particularly marked in renin-dependent (and possibly other vasoconstricted) models of hypertension. Although the exact structure and regulation of the presumed circulating form(s) of ANF remain to be clarified, available information suggests that it may be a new, previously unrecognized factor in the regulation of fluid volume and renal and cardiovascular function.

Atrial natriuretic factor: a hormone produced by the heart.[Pubmed:2932797]

Science. 1985 Nov 15;230(4727):767-70.

Systematic studies on the significance of the secretory-like morphological characteristic of cardiac atrial muscle cells of mammals led to the finding that these cells produce a polypeptide hormone. This hormone, described in 1981 as atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), is diuretic (natriuretic), hypotensive, and has an inhibitory effect on renin and aldosterone secretion. Thus, ANF probably intervenes in the short- and long-term control of water and electrolyte balance and of blood pressure. Phylogenetically, ANF appears early, suggesting different functions for this peptide in accordance with each species' environment. Knowledge of the properties of the hormone should provide insights into the pathophysiology of important clinical entities and lead to the development of new pharmaceutical products.