[Natriuretic peptide family].

Natriuretic peptides family consists of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP), while receptors for these natriuretic peptides comprise at least three subtypes, i.e. A-type (GC-A), B-type (GC-B) and C-type (clearance). ANP and BNP are cardiac hormones mainly synthesized and secreted by atria and ventricles, respectively, but CNP is a neuropeptide synthesized by brain. Both A- and B-type receptors contain particulate guanylate cyclase within their molecule and mediate biological function via cyclic GMP as a second messenger, whereas C-type receptor is involved in clearance and metabolism of natriuretic peptides. In heart failure, cardiac expression of both ANP and BNP is augmented with increased circulating levels as a cardiac compensatory mechanism. Pathophysiological significance of natriuretic peptides system in heart failure is discussed.