Natriuretic

Natriuretic peptides are a group of hormones that are produced by the heart and blood vessels. They are involved in the regulation of sodium and water balance in the body, and play a key role in cardiovascular homeostasis.

Types of Natriuretic Peptides

There are three main types of natriuretic peptides:

• Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP): This is produced by the atria of the heart in response to high blood pressure. It helps to reduce blood pressure by promoting the excretion of sodium and water by the kidneys.

• Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP): This is produced by the ventricles of the heart in response to increased pressure. It has similar effects to ANP.

• C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP): This is produced in the endothelium of blood vessels. It has a role in the regulation of vascular tone and growth.

Function

Natriuretic peptides function to maintain blood pressure and fluid balance in the body. They do this by promoting the excretion of sodium and water by the kidneys, which in turn reduces blood volume and pressure. They also have vasodilatory effects, which further helps to lower blood pressure.

Clinical Significance

Natriuretic peptides are used clinically as biomarkers for heart failure. Elevated levels of BNP or NT-proBNP (the inactive precursor of BNP) in the blood can indicate heart failure. They can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for heart failure.

See Also

• Heart failure
• Hypertension
• Kidney function

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