Natriuretic peptide

Natriuretic peptides are a group of hormones that are produced by the heart and blood vessels. These peptides are involved in the regulation of blood pressure and fluid balance in the body. They are released in response to high blood pressure and act to decrease blood pressure by promoting the excretion of sodium and water by the kidneys.

Types of Natriuretic Peptides

There are three main types of natriuretic peptides:

1. Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP): This peptide is primarily produced by the atria of the heart. It is released in response to atrial stretch, which occurs when there is an increase in blood volume or pressure.
2. Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP): This peptide is primarily produced by the ventricles of the heart. It is released in response to ventricular stretch, which occurs when there is an increase in blood volume or pressure.
3. C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP): This peptide is primarily produced by the endothelial cells of the blood vessels. It is involved in the regulation of vascular tone and growth.

Function of Natriuretic Peptides

Natriuretic peptides function to decrease blood pressure and increase urine output. They do this by:

• Promoting the excretion of sodium and water by the kidneys.
• Inhibiting the release of aldosterone, a hormone that promotes sodium and water retention.
• Dilating the blood vessels, which decreases blood pressure.
• Inhibiting the release of vasopressin, a hormone that promotes water retention.

Clinical Significance

Measurement of natriuretic peptides, particularly BNP, is used in the diagnosis and management of heart failure. Elevated levels of BNP are indicative of heart failure and can be used to monitor the severity of the condition.