This review summarizes the history, identification, and synthesis of atrial natriuretic peptides, as well as observations on their blood levels and physiological effects in humans.
The history of the atrial natriuretic peptides (ANP) begins with the observation of electron dense granules in atrial myocytes of guinea pigs (1). Similar granules were later demonstrated in human and other species (2–4), and it was noted that the granularity varies inversely with the state of hydration (5–6). This prompted the landmark study of De-Bold, showing a natriuretic and diuretic effect of extract from rat atrial tissue (7). Several groups have subsequently identified and synthesized ANPs with 21 to 28 amino acid residues (8–12), which in addition to their natriuretic effect, exhibit vasorelaxant and adrenal steroidogenesis-inhibiting (13,14) properties. Although investigations in humans began only recently, information is rapidly expanding. The following summarizes some observations on blood levels and effects of ANP in man.
Weidmann et al. (Fri,) reported a review. Atrial Natriuretic Peptide was evaluated. This review summarizes the history, identification, and synthesis of atrial natriuretic peptides, as well as observations on their blood levels and physiological effects in humans.