Biologically active atrial peptides

Atrial natriuretic factor in the elderly: diminished response to epinephrine

We have previously found that epinephrine (EPI) increases plasma immunoreactive atrial natriuretic factor (irANF) in young human subjects. Because elderly humans have decreased sensitivity to adrenergic stimulation, we compared plasma irANF responses to intravenous infusion of EPI, 5 micrograms/min for 80 min in six young (ages 20-29) and nine old (ages 62-75) healthy subjects. In addition, we measured plasma irANF responses of the nine old subjects to 1 liter of normal saline infused over 30 min. Young and old subjects had similar basal EPI levels [108 +/- 18 vs. 106 +/- 10 (SE) pg/ml], but basal irANF levels tended to be higher in the old (32 +/- 7 vs. 50 +/- 8 pmol/l, P = 0.15). The young subjects had a significant increase in irANF levels after the EPI infusion (32 +/- 7 vs. 59 +/- 11 pmol/l, P less than 0.02), but there was no change in irANF in the old (50 +/- 8 vs. 48 +/- 7 pmol/l) despite similar plasma EPI levels in young and old (1,125 +/- 57 vs. 1,183 +/- 52 pg/ml). In contrast, the irANF response of the old subjects to saline infusion was striking: all nine subjects demonstrated a rise in irANF (P less than 0.01); mean levels increased from 54 +/- 4 pmol/l to a peak of 122 +/- 23 pmol/l. We conclude that healthy elderly subjects have a defect in EPI-stimulated ANF secretion, a finding compatible with other evidence for diminished sensitivity to adrenergic stimulation in aging.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Renal actions of atrial natriuretic factor: a mathematical modeling study

Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) is a peptide hormone that increases renal NaCl and water excretion. Several renal sites of ANF action have been identified, but general agreement has not been reached concerning the quantitative contribution of each action to the natriuresis and diuresis. Using a five-nephron central core model of NaCl, urea, KCl, and water transport in the rat kidney, we have quantitatively evaluated the hypothetical effects on whole kidney function of three experimentally observed ANF actions: 1) inhibition of active NaCl absorption in the collecting duct, 2) inhibition of osmotic water permeability in the collecting duct, and 3) increased NaCl and water delivery out of the proximal convoluted tubule simulating an increase in glomerular filtration rate. The simulations show that inhibition of collecting duct active NaCl absorption by greater than or equal to 50% can increase NaCl and water excretion to levels that match experimental values. In addition, the model predicted that the urinary sodium concentration will increase to greater than plasma levels as observed experimentally. Simulated decreases in collecting duct water permeability predicted an increase in water excretion with little change in NaCl excretion. Simulated 2.5-5% increases in glomerular filtration rate also increased simulated NaCl and water excretion rates to experimentally observed levels in response to ANF. However, this action was less effective than inhibition of collecting duct active NaCl absorption in increasing the urinary NaCl concentration. We conclude that a combination of several actions are likely to account for the overall renal effect of ANF.

Regulation of particulate guanylate cyclase by atriopeptins: relation between peptide structure, receptor binding, and enzyme kinetics

Structural analogs of atriopeptins (APs) were compared for their ability to activate particulate guanylate cyclase and bind to specific receptors in rat adrenal membranes. All analogs tested increase Vmax without altering the concentration of substrate required for half-maximum activity or the positive coperativity exhibited by the enzyme. Maximum velocities (pmoles of cGMP produced per min per mg protein) achieved in the absence and presence of APs were 128.3 +/- 6.6 and 283.8 +/- 20.6 using Mn2+-GTP, and 53.7 +/- 3.7 and 149.9 +/- 7.6 using Mg2+-GTP as the substrate, respectively. Although all APs were equally efficacious in activating the enzyme, their rank potency was ANF (8-33) = AP III = AP II greater than AP I when either divalent cation was used as the cofactor. The EC50 for activation of guanylate cyclase by AP I was about 10(-7) M, while that for the other peptides was about 10(-8) M, using either divalent cation cofactor. 125I-labeled ANF bound to rat adrenal membranes with a KD of 5.10(-10) M. Although all APs were equally efficacious in competing with labeled ANF for receptor binding, their rank potency was identical to that for enzyme activation. The Ki for AP I was about 10(-8) M, while that for the other peptides was about 10(-10) M. These data suggest that the carboxy terminal Phe-Arg present in the AP analogs except AP I and critical for biological and receptor-binding activity are also important in coupling receptor-ligand interaction with guanylate cyclase activation. The correlation between the rank order potency for receptor binding, enzyme activation, and the reported physiological actions of APs support the suggestion of a functional coupling between these proteins.

Comparison of particulate guanylate cyclase in cells with and without atrial natriuretic peptide receptor binding activity

A line of kidney cells (PK1) which does not possess measurable ANP binding but has an active particulate guanylate cyclase has been identified. The physical characteristics of this enzyme were compared with those of particulate guanylate cyclase and ANP receptors isolated from rat lung. Although receptor and enzyme appear to reside on the same protein in the lung while the cyclase from PK1 cells does not possess ANP binding activity, these proteins exhibit identical physical characteristics. Guanylate cyclase from PK1 cells and rat lung and ANP receptor from lung co-eluted during gel filtration chromatography, with a Stokes radius of 6.1 nm. Also, these activities co-migrated through sucrose density gradients with S20,w values of 10.4 to 10.9. Using these parameters, a molecular weight of about 270 kD was estimated for all three activities. Furthermore, these enzyme activities exhibited similar mobilities in isoelectric focusing gels, with a pI of 6.1. Thus, although particulate guanylate cyclase from lung presumably possesses receptor binding activity, it is physically identical to a form of this enzyme associated with no measurable binding activity. Possible explanations for these observations are discussed.

Atrial natriuretic factor maternal and fetal concentrations in severe preeclampsia

There is a reduction in intravascular volume in patients with preeclampsia. Since the secretion of atrial natriuretic factor by human atrial myocytes is stimulated by increased intraatrial pressure or atrial distention, we sought to determine whether circulating maternal plasma atrial natriuretic factor concentrations were lower in patients with preeclampsia compared to normal pregnant women. The level of alpha-human atrial natriuretic factor was measured by a specific radioimmunoassay. Maternal venous concentrations of a alpha-human atrial natriuretic factor were higher in patients with severe preeclampsia (116.12 +/- 13.37 pg/ml) than in normal pregnant women (80.30 +/- 4.02 pg/ml). Umbilical artery alpha-human atrial natriuretic factor concentrations were higher in fetuses born to patients with severe preeclampsia (197.68 +/- 29.10 pg/ml) than normal control subjects (118.00 +/- 12.52 pg/ml). Umbilical artery alpha-human atrial natriuretic factor concentrations were higher than umbilical or maternal venous concentrations. In cases of severe preeclampsia, despite the presumed volume changes, maternal atrial natriuretic factor concentrations are higher than in normal pregnant women. The fetus appears to produce its own atrial natriuretic factor. Umbilical artery atrial natriuretic factor concentrations in fetuses born to preeclamptic mothers are higher than those seen in normal control subjects.

Effect of exogenous ANP on initial renal function following 24-hour cold preservation

The impact of synthetic atrial natriuretic peptide (sANP) on renal function following cold ischemic injury was studied in a canine autotransplant model. Following a prenephrectomy inulin clearance determination (CIn), the left kidney was excised, flushed with Eurocollins solution, and cold-stored for 24 hours. Immediately following reperfusion and a 10 minute equilibration period, baseline CIn was measured over a 20-minute time interval (Collection Period I). Experimental animals (N = 11) then received 1 mcg/kg sANP by intravenous bolus followed by a continuous infusion at 0.3 mcg/kg/min for 30 minutes. CIn was measured throughout the infusion (Collection Period II). Normal saline was substituted for sANP in control animals (N = 11). CIn was also measured 24 hours following reimplantation in seven control and seven sANP-treated animals. Autograft inulin clearance increased from 0.32 +/- 0.11 ml/min during Period I to 2.5 +/- 0.6 ml/min during sANP infusion (P less than 0.01). This increase in CIn associated with ANP infusion was accompanied by increases in urine flow rate (V) (0.15 +/- 0.05 ml/min to 0.98 +/- 0.21 ml/min, P less than 0.01) and renal blood flow (RBF) measured by electromagnetic flow probe (85 +/- 17 ml/min to 171 +/- 13 ml/min, P less than 0.05). No significant changes in CIn, V, or RBF occurred in control animals between periods I and II. Although systemic blood pressure declined during sANP infusion, it did not decrease to an extent that compromised peripheral perfusion. CIn determined 24 hours after autograft reimplantation in the ANP-treated animals approximated or exceeded values determined during ANP infusion (Period II).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Possible involvement of atrial natriuretic factor in the antihypertensive action of a high-calcium diet in spontaneously hypertensive and Wistar-Kyoto rats

The present study was designed to determine the possible involvement of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) in the hypotensive action of a high-calcium diet. The effects of increased dietary calcium (2.9% calcium, HCa) on blood pressure, urinary sodium excretion, and ANF were examined in 30 spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and 30 Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). Control groups of 30 SHR and 30 WKY were fed normal calcium lab chow (0.4% calcium, NCa). The HCa diet reduced blood pressure and serum phosphorus concentration and increased urinary excretion of sodium and calcium in SHR and WKY. The HCa diet also caused a sustained increase in plasma ANF concentration and, finally, a decrease in atrial ANF concentration in both groups. A significant inverse correlation was observed between ANF concentrations in plasma and atria of the four experimental groups. Plasma ANF concentration was positively correlated with daily calcium consumption, and blood pressure was inversely correlated with daily calcium consumption in HCa- and NCa-SHR groups and in HCa- and NCa-WKY groups, respectively. Furthermore, a significant inverse correlation between blood pressure and plasma ANF concentration was observed in SHR groups and in WKY groups, respectively. The observed sustained increment in endogenous plasma ANF concentration, which is probably caused by increased secretion from the atrium, may contribute, in part, to the blood-pressure-lowering effects of the HCa diet.

cGMP-Producing, Atrial Natriuretic Factor-Responding Cells in the Rat Brain

Using an in vitro incubation method, we stimulated cGMP production in rat brain slices by rat ANF-(103 - 126). The localization of the cells responding to this ANF stimulation with an increase in cGMP production was studied by cGMP immunocytochemistry. ANF-responding cells were found in specific loci throughout the central nervous system of the rat. Regions containing the highest number of these cells were: the olfactory bulb, the lateral septum, the bed nucleus of the accessory olfactory tract, the mediobasal amygdala, the central grey area, the medial vestibular nucleus, and the nucleus of the solitary tract. Scattered ANF-responding, cGMP-immunoreactive cells were found in the hippocampus, the cingulate cortex, the ventral pallidum, the medial preoptic area, and the endopeduncular nucleus. ANF-responding cells in these areas had the same morphology, that is, multipolar with numerous processes. The nature of these ANF-responding cells was studied by sequential staining with an antiserum against glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). In the hippocampus it was demonstrated that all ANF-responding cells are astroglial cells. However, not all astroglial cells in this area showed a cGMP response, demonstrating a regional heterogeneity. ANF-responding cells, having the appearance of neuronal cell bodies, could be found in the subfornical organ, and the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus. Fibres producing cGMP immunoreactivity in response to ANF were found in the median preoptic nucleus, the medial preoptic area, and the dorsal hypothalamus.

Atrial natriuretic peptide in patients with obstructive uropathy

Renal response to release of bilateral ureteral obstruction resembles that to intravenous administration of atrial natriuretic peptide. In a prospective study we measured plasma atrial natriuretic peptide levels before and serially after relief of obstruction in 9 patients (mean age 65 +/- 2 years old) with bilateral ureteral obstruction and azotemia. Obstruction was documented by renal ultrasonography. Before relief of obstruction blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine levels were 85 +/- 18 (mean +/- standard error) and 8.2 +/- 1.3 mg. per dl., respectively, accompanied by metabolic acidosis but not hyperkalemia. Mean plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (measured by radioimmunoassay) was 129 +/- 28, which was markedly elevated compared to 46 +/- 7 pg. per ml. in 7 age-matched control subjects (p less than 0.01). After relief of obstruction, prominent post-obstructive diuresis and natriuresis ensued; the plasma atrial natriuretic peptide level progressively decreased to that noted in the control group, accompanied by improvement in renal function, and diminishing diuresis and natriuresis. These findings were associated with a significant weight loss and an increase in plasma renin activity (from a mean of 1.57 +/- 0.68 to 5.27 +/- 1.82 ng. per ml. per hour, p less than 0.01). These results suggest that atrial natriuretic peptide release is augmented in patients with bilateral ureteral obstruction and azotemia, probably due to hypervolemia, and may contribute to post-obstructive diuresis and natriuresis.

Atrial natriuretic peptide receptors in guinea pig placentas

The multiple physiologic effects of atrial natriuretic peptide are mediated through specific atrial natriuretic peptide plasma membrane receptors. We have attempted to determine whether atrial natriuretic peptide receptors are present in guinea pig placentas and subplacentas at approximately 45 and 65 days' gestation. A microsomal plasma fraction was prepared from each component. Atrial natriuretic peptide receptors were detected by in vitro radioligand techniques with alpha-human atrial natriuretic peptide labeled with iodine 125. In placentas we identified one set of specific binding sites for atrial natriuretic peptide at both gestational ages. Although the maximal concentration of the receptors did not change with advancing gestation, the dissociation constant was higher at 65 than at 45 days' gestation. In subplacentas two sets of binding sites were identified, one of low capacity-high affinity and the other of low affinity-high capacity. The maximal concentration of the atrial natriuretic peptide receptors did not change as a function of gestation. However, the dissociation constant, for both the high- and low-affinity sites, significantly decreased with advancing gestation.

Blunted excretory response to atrial natriuretic peptide in experimental nephrosis

Adriamycin (ADR) nephrosis and a model of unilateral ADR-induced proteinuria were produced in Sprague-Dawley (S.D.) rats to investigate the mechanism of sodium retention by the nephrotic kidney. Plasma volume, as measured by the dilution principle using radioiodinated serum albumin, was significantly higher in nephrotic animals than in control ones (NS: 69.61 +/- 15.02: control: 47.05 +/- 5.32 ml/kg: P less than 0.01). Similarly plasma levels of immunoreactive ANP (iANP) were significantly higher in nephrotic animals compared to controls (NS 104.22 +/- 36.41: control 59.94 +/- 20.88 pg/ml; P less than 0.05). Using the unilateral model we found a markedly reduced diuretic and natriuretic response to the infusion of synthetic rat atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP 1-28) in proteinuric kidney but not in contralateral kidney, despite a comparable increase in glomerular filtration rate. To explain the blunted diuresis and natriuresis in the presence of normal glomerular response to ANP, we investigated the possibility of an abnormality at post-glomerular level by studying ANP receptor density and affinity of the inner stripe of outer medulla and the inner medulla in ADR-and vehicle-treated rats. The inner stripe of outer medulla and the inner medulla receptor density and affinity were not significantly different in ADR rats as compared to animals given the vehicle alone.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide in carcinoid heart disease

Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) concentration was determined and cardiac ultrasound studies were performed in 50 patients with malignant mid-gut carcinoid tumors. The extent of carcinoid-related heart disease varied among the patients. The patients with the most severe right-sided heart disease, who often had signs of right ventricular failure, had significantly (p less than 0.001) higher plasma ANP concentrations than either patients with less or no abnormal ultrasound findings or age- and sex-matched healthy control subjects. ANP levels were serially determined for 0.5 to 4 years (median 2.1) in 12 patients. The levels increased above the reference range in patients with clinical findings of right ventricular failure. In patients without cardiac decompensation the levels remained within the reference range. In 3 patients who had successful tricuspid and pulmonary valve replacements, signs and symptoms of right ventricular failure disappeared and plasma ANP levels declined and normalized. Five patients with progressive right ventricular failure and increasing plasma ANP levels during follow-up eventually died from cardiac decompensation. This study demonstrates the predictive value of serial determinations of plasma ANP in carcinoid heart disease. Such measurements can be an additional guide in the clinical management of these patients.

Atrial natriuretic factor and renin-aldosterone in volume regulation of patients with cirrhosis

The role of the atrial natriuretic factor and of the main counteracting sodium-retaining principle, the renin-aldosterone system, in acute volume regulation of cirrhosis of the liver has been investigated. Central volume stimulation was achieved in 21 patients with cirrhosis, 11 without and 10 with ascites, and 25 healthy controls by 1-hr head-out water immersion. Immersion prompted a highly significant (p less than 0.001) increase of atrial natriuretic factor plasma concentrations in cirrhotic patients without ascites from 8.5 +/- 1.3 fmoles per ml to 16.5 +/- 2.6 fmoles per ml, comparable to the stimulation in control subjects (6.0 +/- 0.6 fmoles per ml to 13.6 +/- 2.6 fmoles per ml). In cirrhotic patients with ascites, atrial natriuretic factor increase (from 7.7 +/- 1.3 fmoles per ml to 11.4 +/- 2.3 fmoles per ml) was blunted (p less than 0.05). Plasma renin activity and plasma aldosterone concentration were elevated in cirrhotic patients, especially in the presence of ascites. Following immersion, plasma renin activity and plasma aldosterone concentration were reduced similarly in all groups. Water immersion induced a more pronounced natriuresis and diuresis in control subjects than in cirrhotic patients. Neither atrial natriuretic factor nor plasma renin activity nor plasma aldosterone concentration alone correlated to sodium excretion. However, atrial natriuretic factor to plasma aldosterone concentration ratios were closely correlated to basal and stimulated natriuresis in cirrhotic patients, particularly in those with ascites. These data suggest that atrial natriuretic factor and the renin-aldosterone system influence volume regulation in patients with cirrhosis.

ANP relaxes bovine tracheal smooth muscle and increases cGMP

Effects of atrial natriuretic peptides (ANP) on the tension, content of guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cGMP) and adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) and activity of particulate and soluble forms of guanylate cyclase were examined in bovine tracheal smooth muscle. Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), atriopeptin II, and atriopeptin III were found to induce relaxation of tracheal smooth muscle precontracted with 5 x 10(-8) M carbachol (an approximate median effective concentration) in a concentration-dependent manner. However, atriopeptin I failed to induce significant relaxation of the muscle. Similar results were obtained when 3 x 10(-6) M histamine or 5 x 10(-7) M serotonin was used as the contracting agent. However, the relaxant effects of ANF, atriopeptin II, and atriopeptin III were much less when a higher concentration of carbachol or 30 mM K+ was used as the contractile agent. Maximally inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of ANF, atriopeptin II, and atriopeptin III for inhibition of muscle contraction induced by 5 x 10(-8) M carbachol ranged from 3.8 to 8.3 x 10(-9) M, indicating that these peptides have intermediate potency between isoproterenol (IC50, 2.0 x 10(-9) M) and sodium nitroprusside (IC50, 2.0 x 10(-8) M). Treatment of the muscle with 3 x 10(-7) M ANF slowed the rate of tension development of the muscle by 10(-7) M carbachol. Tissue levels of cAMP were not influenced by any of the atrial peptides at concentrations of 10(-9)-10(-6) M; however, cGMP levels were increased about five- to ninefold.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) increases urinary protein excretion in patients with essential hypertension: a possible role of ANF for renal handling of protein

Low dose iv infusion (0.01 and 0.03 micrograms/kg per min, for 30 min each) of alpha-human atrial natriuretic factor (alpha-hANF) produced a significant increase (+300%) in urinary protein excretion in patients with essential hypertension but not in normotensive controls, when their renal function was normal. The major component of excreted proteins induced by alpha-hANF infusion was presumed to be albumin on the basis of molecular weight (69,000) analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Urine output and sodium and potassium excretion rates were increased dose-dependently by alpha-hANF infusion in the hypertensive patients in a similar fashion to those in the controls. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) remained unchanged in the controls but was slightly increased in the patients (+33%) during the infusion. These results suggest that besides its previously recognized physiological functions such as natriuresis and diuresis, ANF plays an important role in the regulation of renal handling of proteins in patients with essential hypertension.

Dissociation of natriuresis and diuresis and heterogeneity of the effector system of atrial natriuretic factor in rats

The hypotensive, natriuretic, and diuretic actions of human atrial natriuretic factor-(99-126) (hANF) are accompanied by an elevation of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in plasma and urine. However, the oxidized hANF analogue, human [Met-O110]ANF-(99-126) (Met-O-ANF), has been reported to be unable to increase cGMP (Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 128: 538-546). We employed this oxidized peptide to evaluate the relationship between its biological effects and cGMP generation, with cGMP serving as a marker of the recognized property of ANF to stimulate particulate guanylate cyclase. Met-O-ANF appeared to be a partial agonist, exhibiting a decreasing order of relative potency of hypotensive, vasorelaxant, diuretic, and natriuretic functions compared to hANF. A lower degree of cGMP increases was achieved by this analogue in cultured smooth muscle and endothelial cells. Met-O-ANF doses, which led to a significant increase in diuresis, were neither natriuretic nor accompanied by an increase of urinary cGMP. We were thus able to dissociate the diuretic and natriuretic effects of ANF. High doses of the oxidized analogue were required to elevate cGMP levels in plasma and urine. In isolated kidney fractions, Met-O-ANF's action on cGMP was significantly lower in glomeruli (fivefold less), virtually absent in the collecting duct, yet only slightly different (20% less) in thick ascending limb. Our results indicate that the diuretic and natriuretic effects are exerted at distinct sites, with only the natriuresis being related to an increase of extracellular cGMP. The variability of differential potency of biological and biochemical effects from tissue to tissue of these two forms of human ANF support the notion of the heterogeneity of the ANF effector system.

Specific inhibitors of endopeptidase 24.11 inhibit the metabolism of atrial natriuretic peptides in vitro and in vivo

Atrial natriuretic peptides (ANPs) are degraded rapidly by renal brush border membranes in vitro. Here, we report that thiorphan, a specific inhibitor of endopeptidase 24.11, afforded almost complete protection against inactivation of ANPs by a renal brush border membrane preparation. The diastereoisomers of [3-(N-hydroxy)carboxamido-2-benzylpropanoyl]-L-alanine (HCBA) are potent inhibitors of endopeptidase 24.11 and were also tested for their abilities to inhibit ANP-(103-126) degradation. The (S,S)-diastereoisomer was more effective than the (R,S)-diastereoisomer (kelatorphan), but both were less potent than thiorphan. To determine if endopeptidase inhibitors could decrease ANP metabolism in in vivo, thiorphan and (S,S)-HCBA were given to rats with or without a continuous infusion of ANP-(103-126). Both inhibitors induced rapid increases in plasma ANP concentration in rats administered exogenous ANP-(103-126), but had no effect on endogenous ANP levels. Thus, specific inhibitors of endopeptidase 24.11 decrease the degradation of ANPs in vitro, and are effective in reducing the metabolism of ANP-(103-126) in vivo.

Elevation by atrial natriuretic factors of cyclic GMP levels in astroglia-rich cultures from murine brain

Atrial natriuretic factors, peptide hormones originally found in the heart, slowly but strongly elevate the level of cyclic GMP in primary astrocyte-rich cultures derived from brains of newborn rats or mice but not in neuron-rich cultures prepared from embryonic rat brain. In the absence of a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, a plateau level of cyclic GMP is obtained within 10 min. In the presence of the inhibitor 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine, the concentration of cyclic GMP continues to rise, even after 30 min. The elevation of the level of cyclic GMP in response to atrial natriuretic factor is much more pronounced in the rat cultures than the mouse cultures. Even at peptide concentrations of 1 microM, plateaus of the concentration-response curves are not yet reached. The potencies of the active peptides vary over a range of approximately 1.5 orders of magnitude, with atriopeptins II and III and auriculin A being the most potent ones. These results suggest (a) that atrial natriuretic factors may regulate functions of glial cells, most likely of astrocytes, in brain and (b) that such cultures may be useful tools in defining such astroglial functions.

Intra- and extrarenal factors of oedema formation in the nephrotic syndrome

The role of intra- and extrarenal factors in oedema formation in children with nephrotic syndrome is reviewed. Oedema reflects an abnormal accumulation of fluid within the interstitial tissue. At the capillary level oedema develops when increased lymph flow is no longer effective for the removal of interstitial fluid and the maintenance of intravascular volume. Alterations of intrarenal haemodynamics and tubular sodium reabsorption contribute to sodium retention. Recent studies suggest that during oedema formation reduced effective circulatory volume triggers changes in various hormonal systems, such as renin-angiotensin-aldosterone, noradrenaline, dopamine, vasopressin, prostaglandins and natriuretic factors, which contribute to sodium and water retention. It appears that the release of atrial natriuretic peptide following central volume expansion is responsible for the increased urine flow and natriuresis after intravenous administration of albumin.

Influence of parathyroidectomy on blood pressure and vascular reactivity in spontaneously hypertensive rats

We investigated the influence of parathyroidectomy (PTX) on blood pressure (BP) and hindlimb vascular reactivity to noradrenaline (NA) and vasopressin (AVP) in male spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) and normotensive Wistar Kyoto rats (WKR). Three groups of SHR and WKR, respectively, were investigated: Sham-operated (SO) rats on a normal calcium intake (0.95%), SO rats on moderately elevated calcium intake (1.6% calcium diet) and PTX rats on the 1.6% calcium diet. At the end of the experiment (3 months), directly or indirectly measured BP was significantly lower in the PTX-SHR group on the 1.6% calcium diet than in SO-SHR on the same diet. In WKR groups, no changes of BP were recorded. Hindlimb perfusion with oxygenated Tyrode's solution for cumulative dose response curves with NA (0.1-1000 x 10(-6) M) and AVP (0.5-500 x 10(-9) M) showed no differences between PTX and SO groups. Maximal pressures and ED50 for agents used were significantly higher in SHR than WKR groups (p less than 0.05). The results support the hypothesis that the parathyroid glands contribute to high blood pressure in SHR. However, the antihypertensive action of PTX was not mediated by a change in hindlimb vascular reactivity.

Atrial natriuretic peptides: receptors and second messengers

Atrial natriuretic peptides appear to elicit their actions in some target tissues by binding to a novel cell-surface transmembrane protein which possesses both peptide binding and guanylate cyclase activities. Ligand binding stimulates enzyme activity to produce increased intracellular concentrations of cyclic GMP which, in turn, mediates the cell's physiological response.

Atrial natriuretic peptide receptors in sheep cotyledons

Effects dependent on atrial natriuretic peptide are mediated through specific atrial natriuretic peptide plasma membrane receptors. We previously demonstrated the presence of specific atrial natriuretic peptide receptors in human placental membranes. We asked whether atrial natriuretic peptide specific receptors are present in sheep cotyledons. Sheep cotyledons were obtained from pregnant ewes at 125 to 142 days' gestation. Each cotyledon was separated into two components, the outer layer (maternal capsule) and the spongy inner layer (fetal component). A microsomal plasma membrane fraction was prepared from each layer. Atrial natriuretic peptide receptors were detected by in vitro radioligand techniques with 125I-alpha-human atrial natriuretic peptide. In sheep cotyledons there are two sets of atrial natriuretic peptide receptors that show either high-affinity/low-capacity or low-affinity/high-capacity binding characteristics. Moreover, membranes from the inner layer (fetal component) appear to have a lower concentration of high-affinity atrial natriuretic peptide binding sites than those from the maternal capsule.

Contribution of the kidney to metabolic clearance of atrial natriuretic peptide

To quantify the role of the kidney in whole body metabolic clearance rate (MCR) from plasma of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), synthetic alpha-human ANP-(1-28) was infused at 200 ng/min to steady-state conditions in chronically instrumented one-kidney conscious dogs. Clearances were measured in dogs with a normally filtering kidney and they were also measured after the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was reduced to close to zero by acutely inflating a cuff around the renal artery (RAC), which resulted in minimal urine production and renal blood flow reduction to 59% of the resting level. In normal dogs, MCR was 1,090 +/- 134 ml/min with renal clearance rate (RCR) contributing only 13.9%. After RAC, MCR fell to 864 +/- 151 ml/min, due in part to a fall in RCR (-41.5 +/- 12.9 ml/min), but mostly due to a fall in "rest of the body" (total renal) clearance of ANP. The reduced GFR accounted for virtually all the fall in RCR. Normal plasma ANP half-life was 59.6 +/- 7.9 s. In conclusion, MCR of ANP was very high, approaching the cardiac output, suggesting that most of ANP is cleared in one circulation through peripheral tissues. GFR contributed significantly to RCR (approximately 30%) but the contribution of the kidney to whole body MCR was small relative to rest of the body clearance of ANP.

Plasma human atrial natriuretic factor in cirrhosis and ascites with and without functional renal failure

Functional renal failure of cirrhosis (FRFC) is a usually fatal syndrome of acute renal failure occurring in patients with advanced liver disease. Although not conclusively proven, most evidence suggests that renal arterial and arteriolar vasoconstriction is the cause of the renal failure in these patients. However, the mediators of the vasoconstriction remain unknown. Human atrial natriuretic factor (hANF) is a hormone with potent natriuretic, diuretic, and vasorelaxant properties. A deficiency of hANF could lead to renal arterial vasoconstriction and avid renal sodium retention as seen in FRFC. This study was undertaken to determine if patients with FRFC are deficient in circulating hANF. Seven patients with advanced alcoholic liver disease and renal failure of unknown cause (FRFC) were compared with 7 patients with advanced alcoholic liver disease, ascites, and normal serum creatinine as well as with 14 healthy volunteers. Plasma hANF was measured by radioimmunoassay. Plasma hANF was 742 +/- 227 pg/ml (mean +/- SEM) in patients with FRFC compared with 360 +/- 70 pg/ml in patients with liver disease and normal serum creatinine (p greater than 0.05) and 28 +/- 5.7 pg/ml in healthy volunteers (p less than 0.005 vs. FRFC and chronic liver disease, ascites, and normal serum creatinine). Thus, FRFC is not caused by a deficiency of circulating hANF. The elevated plasma hANF levels in patients with chronic liver disease and continued sodium retention may suggest a renal insensitivity to the natriuretic effects of hANF.

Increased circulating atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) release during induced ventricular tachycardia

During sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT), there is usually a rise in mean atrial pressure. Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) is a peptide released by the atria in response to increased atrial pressure or distension. ANF causes arterial vasodilation and natriuresis in man, and may contribute to the polyuria noted during tachycardia. We hypothesized that induction of sustained VT would cause elevation of right atrial pressure and lead to increased release of ANF. We measured mean arterial pressure, right atrial pressure, VT cycle length, atrial cycle length, plasma norepinephrine, and central ANF in 11 patients during 20 episodes of VT. The mean cycle length of induced tachycardia was 335 +/- 15 msec, with a mean atrial cycle length of 547 +/- 43 msec. Baseline plasma ANF was 70 +/- 11 femtomoles per milliliter and increased to 133 +/- 22 fmol/ml (p less than 0.001) after 4 minutes of VT. There was a decrease in mean arterial pressure from 87 +/- 3 to 66 +/- 3 mm Hg, and a rise in mean right atrial pressure from 4.0 +/- 0.8 to 11 +/- 1 mm Hg (p less than 0.001). The change in plasma ANF was quite variable among individual patients and was correlated with changes in mean right atrial pressure but poorly correlated with changes in mean arterial pressure, plasma norepinephrine, and atrial cycle length. Our data demonstrate that significant increased in ANF levels occur during sustained VT and are associated with increased right atrial pressure.

Effect of synthetic human atrial natriuretic peptide (102-126) in nephrotic syndrome

Synthetic human ANP (102-126) or vehicle was intravenously administered to eight patients with non-edematous nephrotic syndrome to study its effect on protein and sodium excretion. ANP was given in ascending doses, each dose for one hour, two to three days apart. Four patients received 0.03, 0.10 and 0.45 microgram/kg/min of ANP, and four received 0.015, 0.06 and 0.20 microgram/kg/min. Natriuresis increased at all doses; by 179 +/- 13.6% (mean +/- SEM; P less than 0.05) at 0.015 microgram/kg/min and by 660 +/- 71.5% (P less than 0.01) at 0.20 microgram/kg/min. Urinary albumin excretion increased by 138 +/- 30.1% (P less than 0.05) at 0.015 microgram/kg/min of ANP and by 534 +/- 132% (P less than 0.01) at 0.20 microgram/kg/min. Immunoglobulin G excretion increased proportionally to albumin excretion. Hematocrit and serum albumin concentration increased after ANP. In each patient the percent reduction of plasma volume calculated from the effect on serum albumin was smaller than the hemoconcentration calculated from the effect on hematocrit, suggesting a loss of albumin from the intravascular compartment. This could not be accounted for by the increased glomerular filtration of albumin. Blood pressure and effective renal plasma flow decreased and filtration fraction increased after ANP. Plasma renin was suppressed at lower doses of ANP but was stimulated, together with plasma noradrenaline, at higher doses.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Atrial-natriuretic-factor mRNA is developmentally regulated in heart ventricles and actively expressed in cultured ventricular cardiac muscle cells of rat and human

Atrial-natriuretic-factor (ANF) mRNA is actively expressed in ventricular heart myocytes of neonatal rats and fetal and young (2.5-year-old) humans. In rat, ANF mRNA transcription is repressed by the 23rd day of postnatal development, and in human it is no longer detected by the 14th year of development. Its expression is observed in atrial myocytes of both of these species at all ages. ANF mRNA is expressed in primary cultures of ventricular cardiac muscle cells prepared from both neonatal-rat and fetal-human hearts. Surprisingly it is also very actively expressed in cultures of adult rat ventricular cardiac muscle cells. The effect of several hormones on the expression of ANF mRNA in rat and human myocyte cultures was evaluated. These studies demonstrate that ANF mRNA transcription is developmentally regulated in both rat and human heart ventricles and suggest that ventricular cardiac muscle-cell cultures may be useful in studying the regulation of the expression of this gene.

Interaction of atriopeptin III and vasopressin on calcium kinetics and contraction of aortic smooth muscle cells

The cellular mechanism of the vasodilatory action of atriopeptin III (APIII) on vasopressin (AVP)-induced Ca2+ mobilization and cell shape change in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) was studied. APIII (10(-8) M) attenuated the increase of intracellular free Ca2+, [Ca2+]i, induced by 10(-8) M AVP (234.0 +/- 14.8 vs. 310.0 +/- 28.4 nM, P less than 0.01). Similar results were obtained in 45Ca2+ efflux experiments. APIII (10(-7) M), however, did not alter AVP-induced inositol trisphosphate (IP3) production, although the levels of inositol-1-phosphate were significantly reduced. The effect of APIII to block or attenuate AVP-induced Ca2+ mobilization was associated with an inhibition of AVP-stimulated cell shape change. The effect of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) on cell shape, however, occurred at lower ANF concentrations than the effect on the Ca2+ mobilization. APIII stimulated production of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in VSMC. The effect of APIII on AVP-stimulated Ca2+ mobilization was partially mimicked by the stable nucleotide 8-bromo cGMP and was not affected by the soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor, methylene blue (10(-4) M). These results suggest that APIII exerts its vasodilatory effect, in part, by interference with vasopressor-stimulated Ca2+ mobilization in vascular smooth muscle cells, perhaps by stimulating particulate guanylate cyclase and cGMP. However, an effect of ANF on the contractile mechanism at a site independent of Ca2+ release is also suggested by the present results.

Impact of acute reduction in chronically elevated left atrial pressure on sodium and water excretion

To test the hypothesis that a reduction in chronically elevated left atrial pressure would decrease sodium and water excretion in humans, we studied 61 carefully selected patients who underwent cardiac surgery for valvular or coronary artery disease or both. The immediate postoperative decrease in left atrial pressure (from 16.7 +/- 1.0 to 9.4 +/- 0.4 mm Hg; p less than 0.001) was inversely correlated with postoperative urine output (r = -0.69; p less than 0.001) and sodium excretion (r = -0.51; p less than 0.005). There was no significant relationship between postoperative urine output or sodium excretion and other hemodynamic or nonhemodynamic variables. A significant postoperative decrease in plasma atrial natriuretic factor (from 150 +/- 22 to 65 +/- 14 pg/ml; p less than 0.01) and increase in plasma renin activity (from 2.5 +/- 0.6 to 8.7 +/- 3.2; p less than 0.05) occurred in patients with a 7 mm Hg or greater postoperative decrease in left atrial pressure. Thus, an acute reduction in left atrial pressure results in significant reductions in urine output and sodium excretion, the magnitude of which are related to the degree of reduction in left atrial pressure.

Platelet activating factor antagonism with BN52021 protects the kidney against acute ischemic injury

The present study has been conducted to evaluate the eventual role of the platelet activating factor (PAF) in post-ischemic recovery of renal function, using BN52021, a PAF receptor antagonist, in the anesthetized rat. In Groups 1 and 2, animals were maintained hydropenic (fractional excretion of sodium less than 1%), while in Groups 3 and 4, studies were performed under extracellular expansion (0.9% NaCl, 5% of body weight), a procedure known to protect the kidney from ischemic injury. Groups 1 and 3 (control animals) were untreated, whereas Groups 2 and 4 received an intravenous bolus of BN52021 (3mg/kg), immediately before clearance studies. After three 20-minute control periods, the left renal artery was occluded during 30 minutes. Four consecutive 20-minute clearance periods were taken after the release of occlusion. In Groups 1 and 2, urine flow (UV) increased from 3.1 +/- 0.9 to 20.9 +/- 3.6 ml/min, and from 6.8 +/- 0.3 to 40.4 +/- 4.5 ml/min, respectively, from control to the last period of recovery. Glomerular filtration (GFR) recovered to 38% of control values, from 0.58 +/- 0.09 to 0.22 +/- 0.10 ml/min in Group 1, as opposed to Group 2, where GFR recovered to 69%, from 0.61 +/- 0.07 to 0.42 +/- 0.06 ml/min. Urinary sodium (UNaV) increased from 0.3 +/- 0.1 to 3.0 +/- 0.9 microEq/min, and from 1.0 +/- 0.3 to 6.0 +/- 0.7 microEq/min, in Groups 1 and 3. UV rose from 14.3 +/- 2.5 to 35.3 +/- 3.5 microliters/min, and from 14.2 +/- 2.1 to 68.6 +/- 9.3 microliters/min, in Groups 3 and 4, during the same periods.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Vascular responses to local atrial natriuretic peptide infusion in man

1. The effect on skin and muscle blood flow of arterial infusion of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) directly into the forearm circulation, and on venous tone of direct infusion into a dorsal hand vein, was studied in normal subjects. 2. ANP produced a dose-dependent increase in both skin and muscle blood flow, but at equivalent doses, produced no dilatation of noradrenaline-preconstricted dorsal hand veins. These findings indicate that ANP acting locally, is an arterioselective dilator in the upper limb circulation in normal man. 3. Measurements of ANP in venous plasma during arterial infusion suggest marked clearance of ANP across the forearm vascular bed. Such peripheral clearance may, at least in part, account for the short plasma half-life of this peptide. 4. The lowest dose of ANP infused was calculated to produce plasma levels similar to those found in patients with heart failure. The findings with this dose suggest that, in heart failure, circulating levels of ANP may be within a range capable of influencing peripheral vascular resistance directly.

Microvascular effects of atrial natriuretic factor: interaction with alpha 1- and alpha 2-adrenoceptors

The cremaster skeletal muscle of anesthetized rats was denervated and extended with intact circulation into a tissue bath. Intravital microscopy was used to measure microvessel diameter at three different anatomical levels within the microcirculation: large distributing arterioles (x control diameter = 100 +/- 7 micron), large capacitance venules (147 +/- 8 micron), and small terminal arterioles (17 +/- 1 micron). Norepinephrine (NE) was added to the cremaster bath to produce intermediate reductions in diameter of large arterioles and venules (55% and 38% of maximum constriction, respectively). In the presence of NE tone, bath-added atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) produced concentration-dependent dilation of both arterioles and venules. Arteriolar IC25 = 18 pmol and IC50 = 1.2 X 10(-10) M; venules exhibited similar sensitivity. However, the highest ANF concentration examined (10(-7) M) only reversed NE-induced tone by 70%. In a second large vessel group ANF completely reversed constriction induced by the alpha 1-adrenoceptor agonist, phenylephrine, in the presence of 5 X 10(-7) M yohimbine. However, vessels constricted with the alpha 2-receptor agonist UK-14,304 (in the presence of 10(-8) M prazosin) were insensitive to ANF. A third group of terminal arterioles, which possess considerable spontaneous "intrinsic" tone, were studied in the absence of alpha-receptor agonists. Significant dilation occurred at greater than 10(-7) M, and the maximal response was only 25% of complete dilation with adenosine. These data indicate that ANF exhibits a high potency and selectivity for reversal of alpha 1-adrenoceptor-mediated constriction of large arterioles and venules. Constriction produced by alpha 2-adrenoceptor occupation or by nonadrenergic "intrinsic" mechanisms appears to be insensitive to ANF. We propose that the ability of ANF to reduce microvascular resistance depends on the relative contribution of alpha 1-, alpha 2-, and intrinsic vasoconstrictor components to the prevailing level of smooth muscle tone. Differences in these components among regional circulations and between arterial and venous smooth muscle may contribute to the systemic hemodynamic pattern produced by ANF.

Atrial natriuretic factor reduces cyclic adenosine monophosphate content of human fibroblasts by enhancing phosphodiesterase activity

Radioligand binding studies disclosed one class of high affinity atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) receptors on human fibroblast membranes (Kd = 66 pM; maximum number of binding sites [Bmax] = 7,000 sites/cell). ANF increased cellular cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) content and suppressed isoproterenol- and PGE1-elevated, but not basal, cAMP content. Pertussis toxin pretreatment, which maximally ADP-ribosylated Gi, the guanine nucleotide-binding protein that couples inhibitory receptors to adenylate cyclase and blocks receptor-mediated inhibition of adenylate cyclase, did not interfere with ANF suppression of isoproterenol- or PGE1-elevated cellular cAMP content. Preliminary incubation of fibroblasts with 8-bromo cGMP or phosphodiesterase inhibitors, including 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine, Ro 20-1724, and cilostamide, however, prevented the ANF suppression of cAMP. MB 22948, an inhibitor that is partially selective for cGMP phosphodiesterase, did not block the effect of ANF. We conclude that in these cells, unlike other systems, ANF reduces cAMP content by activating a phosphodiesterase rather than by inhibiting adenylate cyclase.

Atrial natriuretic factor release is enhanced by incremental atrial pacing

There is ample evidence from animal models indicating that secretion of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) can be induced by an increase in atrial contraction frequency or atrial distension. The influence of these stimulatory signals on ANF secretion in humans has not been fully elucidated. We assessed the responses to graded right atrial pacing in 28 patients (aged 33 to 70 years) at rates of 100, 125, and 150 beats/min on right atrial pressure, left atrial size (by two-dimensional echocardiography in 9 of 28 patients), and circulating plasma ANF levels. At pacing rates of 125 and 150 beats/min, ANF levels increased from a baseline value of 64 +/- 9 fmol/ml (mean +/- SEM) to 89 +/- 13 fmol/ml (pp less than 0.05) and to 132 +/- 17 fmol/ml, respectively (p less than 0.001). Right atrial pressure increased from a baseline value of 4.1 +/- 0.7 mm Hg to 4.5 +/- 0.6 mm Hg at a pacing rate of 125 beats/min (p less than 0.05) and to 6.1 +/- 0.8 mm Hg at a pacing rate of 150 beats/min (p less than 0.001). Left atrial dimension increased from a baseline value of 44.5 +/- 3 mm to 49.5 +/- 3 mm at a pacing rate of 125 beats/min (p less than 0.05) and increased further to 52.5 +/- 3 mm at a pacing rate of 150 beats/min (p less than 0.001). No significant changes in atrial pressure or size or in plasma ANF were observed at a pacing rate of 100 beats/min.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Effect of vasopressors on atrial natriuretic factor and hemodynamic function in humans

To assess the effects of vasopressors on plasma levels of immunoreactive atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), 13 normal men were studied on two occasions. On the experimental day, subjects received sequential 15-minute intravenous infusions of angiotensin II in doses of 4, 8, and 16 pmol/kg/min. Following a 30-minute recovery period, subjects received sequential 15-minute infusions of phenylephrine in doses of 0.4 and 0.8 micrograms/kg/min. Right atrial pressure, mean pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, pulmonary artery pressure, mean systemic arterial pressure, and plasma levels of renin activity, aldosterone, angiotensin II, and immunoreactive ANF were obtained sequentially throughout the protocol. During the control day, vehicle was infused and plasma samples were obtained for hormone measurements. Infusion of angiotensin II and phenylephrine increased mean systemic arterial pressure in a stepwise fashion. Both right atrial pressure and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure increased significantly during both doses of phenylephrine, but only the highest dose of angiotensin II significantly increased atrial pressures. Plasma levels of immunoreactive ANF increased parallel with the changes in right atrial pressure and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, with significant increases occurring only at the highest dose of both pressors. Angiotensin II and aldosterone levels increased and renin activity decreased during infusion of angiotensin II. There were no significant changes in plasma levels of immunoreactive ANF during the control day. These studies demonstrate that infusion of vasopressors increases plasma levels of ANF, but only when the vasopressor effect is associated with significant increases in right atrial and pulmonary capillary wedge pressures. Atrial stretch is the most likely mediator of the increase in plasma levels of immunoreactive ANF during vasoconstriction.

Reversible induction of right ventricular atriopeptin synthesis in hypertrophy due to hypoxia

Right ventricular hypertrophy produced in rats exposed to 10% oxygen for 3 weeks resulted in a ninefold increase in atriopeptin immunoreactivity (APir) and a 160-fold increase in atriopeptin messenger RNA (AP mRNA) in the right ventricular myocardium. A small but significant increase in left ventricular APir and AP mRNA was also present, probably representing the interventricular septum. Right atrial APir was decreased by 50%, but left atrial APir was not different from normoxic controls. Purification of ventricular tissue extracts by high-performance liquid chromatography revealed primarily the high molecular weight prohormone. The development of right ventricular hypertrophy and right ventricular APir content followed a similar time course, each evident at 7 days of hypoxia and reaching a plateau at 14 days. Hypoxia followed by normoxia caused right ventricular APir to fall to control levels within 3 days, despite persistent right ventricular hypertrophy. This data demonstrates that hypoxia can reversibly induce extra-atrial expression of atriopeptin synthesis in the cardiac ventricle.

Hemodynamic, renal and endocrine effects of atrial natriuretic peptide infusion in severe heart failure

The cardiac release and total body and renal clearances and the hemodynamic, renal and endocrine effects of increasing doses of atrial natriuretic peptide were investigated in 12 patients with severe chronic congestive heart failure. Immunoreactive arterial plasma levels of atrial natriuretic peptide were 10-fold higher than normal and there was no correlation between aortic atrial natriuretic peptide and cardiac filling pressures. The heart released atrial natriuretic peptide into the coronary sinus. The kidney, though a major clearance site, accounted for only 33% of the total body clearance. Administration of 0.3 micrograms/kg per min atrial natriuretic peptide produced significant changes in heart rate (95 +/- 4 to 85 +/- 4 beats/min) and mean arterial (92 +/- 8 to 77 +/- 9 mm Hg), right atrial (13 +/- 3 to 8 +/- 2 mm Hg) and mean pulmonary artery occluded (27 +/- 3 to 14 +/- 3 mm Hg) pressures. Atrial natriuretic peptide increased cardiac index (2.25 +/- 0.18 to 2.83 +/- 0.3 liters/min per m2) and stroke work index (21 +/- 1.5 to 29 +/- 3.4 g/m2), whereas systemic vascular resistance (1,424 +/- 139 to 1,033 +/- 97 dynes.s.cm(-5)) decreased. Infusion of 0.1 microgram/kg per min atrial natriuretic peptide increased urinary flow 128%, fractional excretion of sodium 133% and fractional excretion of potassium 35%. The filtration fraction increased from 29 +/- 2 to 31 +/- 4%. This represented a disproportionate rise in glomerular filtration rate over renal plasma flow. Plasma aldosterone and norepinephrine decreased whereas plasma renin activity remained unchanged. In association with these hemodynamic, excretory and endocrine changes, the urinary excretion of cyclic guanosine monophosphate doubled. Placebo had no effect. These results showed that, despite high circulating levels of atrial natriuretic peptide, administration of this hormone in heart failure is associated with potentially beneficial hemodynamic, renal and endocrine effects.

Antagonism of V2-receptor effect of antidiuretic hormone by atrial natriuretic peptide in man

Human alpha-atrial natriuretic peptide (h-alpha ANP) makes the urine of dehydrated volunteers hypotonic to plasma despite high circulating concentrations of antidiuretic hormone. Urinary dilution with h-alpha ANP also occurs in subjects receiving indomethacin. Therefore, h-alpha ANP antagonises effects of antidiuretic hormone on distal tubular V2-receptors in man, probably without involving prostaglandins.

Expression of atrial natriuretic factor as a cleavable fusion protein with chloramphenicol acetyltransferase in Escherichia coli

Recombinant fusion proteins containing human atrial natriuretic factor, ANF(1-28) joined to chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) via cleavable linker sequences have been produced in Escherichia coli. The linker sequences were designed to allow the release of authentic ANF(1-28) following proteolytic cleavage by enterokinase or thrombin, or chemical cleavage with 2-(2-nitrophenylsulphenyl)-3-methyl-3'-bromoindolenine. Proteins, containing ANF(1-28) fused to the carboxyl-terminal region of CAT (using the ScaI restriction site in the cat gene), were largely soluble in E. coli and were obtained in higher yield than analogues containing ANF(1-28) linked to shorter CAT sequences. The longer derivatives also retained CAT activity allowing subsequent purification by affinity chromatography.

Atrial natriuretic factor-responding and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-producing cells in the rat hippocampus: a combined micropharmacological and immunocytochemical approach

Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF)-responding, cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-producing cells were visualized in the hippocampus of the rat applying cGMP immunocytochemistry to hippocampal tissue slices incubated in vitro. These cells were found scattered throughout the hippocampus with their highest density in the hilus fascia dentata. Staining with an antibody against glial fibrillary acidic protein showed a completely different pattern, suggesting a non-glial nature of the ANF-responding cells. cGMP accumulation assayed biochemically was observed already at 10 microM ANF and was sensitive to inhibition by Methylene blue. The immunocytochemical data were fully supported by the biochemical measurements of cGMP under these conditions. Our results show for the first time a response to ANF of individual, cGMP-producing cells in the CNS of the rat.