Detailed Explanation
Family of peptide hormones that regulate blood pressure and fluid balance by promoting sodium excretion (natriuresis). The three main members are ANP (atrial natriuretic peptide, 28 aa, from heart atria), BNP (brain natriuretic peptide, 32 aa, primarily from heart ventricles despite its name), and CNP (C-type natriuretic peptide, 22 aa, from vascular endothelium).
All contain a 17-residue disulfide ring essential for receptor binding. BNP and its inactive fragment NT-proBNP are among the most important clinical biomarkers in cardiology — elevated levels indicate heart failure and guide treatment decisions. Nesiritide (recombinant BNP) was approved for acute decompensated heart failure.
Key Facts
- Family of peptide hormones that regulate blood pressure and fluid balance by promoting sodium excretion (natriuresis).
- The three main members are ANP (atrial natriuretic peptide, 28 aa, from heart atria), BNP (brain natriuretic peptide, 32 aa, primarily from heart ventricles despite its name), and CNP (C-type natriuretic peptide, 22 aa, from vascular endothelium).
- All contain a 17-residue disulfide ring essential for receptor binding.
- BNP and its inactive fragment NT-proBNP are among the most important clinical biomarkers in cardiology — elevated levels indicate heart failure and guide treatment decisions.
- Nesiritide (recombinant BNP) was approved for acute decompensated heart failure.
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