Hypothalamic action of atrial natriuretic factor to inhibit vasopressin secretion

Natriuretic Peptides and Normal Body Fluid Regulation

Natriuretic peptides are structurally related, functionally diverse hormones. Circulating atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) are delivered predominantly by the heart. Two C-type natriuretic peptides (CNPs) are paracrine messengers, notably in bone, brain, and vessels. Natriuretic peptides act by binding to the extracellular domains of three receptors, NPR-A, NPR-B, and NPR-C of which the first two are guanylate cyclases. NPR-C is coupled to inhibitory proteins. Atrial wall stress is the major regulator of ANP secretion; however, atrial pressure changes plasma ANP only modestly and transiently, and the relation between plasma ANP and atrial wall tension (or extracellular volume or sodium intake) is weak. Absence and overexpression of ANP-related genes are associated with modest blood pressure changes. ANP augments vascular permeability and reduces vascular contractility, renin and aldosterone secretion, sympathetic nerve activity, and renal tubular sodium transport. Within the physiological range of plasma ANP, the responses to step-up changes are unimpressive; in man, the systemic physiological effects include diminution of renin secretion, aldosterone secretion, and cardiac preload. For BNP, the available evidence does not show that cardiac release to the blood is related to sodium homeostasis or body fluid control. CNPs are not circulating hormones, but primarily paracrine messengers important to ossification, nervous system development, and endothelial function. Normally, natriuretic peptides are not powerful natriuretic/diuretic hormones; common conclusions are not consistently supported by hard data. ANP may provide fine-tuning of reno-cardiovascular relationships, but seems, together with BNP, primarily involved in the regulation of cardiac performance and remodeling. © 2017 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 8:1211-1249, 2018.

Epigenetic Programming of Synthesis, Release, and/or Receptor Expression of Common Mediators Participating in the Risk/Resilience for Comorbid Stress-Related Disorders and Coronary Artery Disease

Corticotrophin releasing factor, vasopressin, oxytocin, natriuretic hormones, angiotensin, neuregulins, some purinergic substances, and some cytokines contribute to the long-term modulation and restructuring of cardiovascular regulation networks and, at the same time, have relevance in situations of comorbid abnormal stress responses. The synthesis, release, and receptor expression of these mediators seem to be under epigenetic control since early stages of life, possibly underlying the comorbidity to coronary artery disease (CAD) and stress-related disorders (SRD). The exposure to environmental conditions, such as stress, during critical periods in early life may cause epigenetic programming modifying the development of pathways that lead to stable and long-lasting alterations in the functioning of these mediators during adulthood, determining the risk of or resilience to CAD and SRD. However, in contrast to genetic information, epigenetic marks may be dynamically altered throughout the lifespan. Therefore, epigenetics may be reprogrammed if the individual accepts the challenge to undertake changes in their lifestyle. Alternatively, epigenetics may remain fixed and/or even be inherited in the next generation. In this paper, we analyze some of the common neuroendocrine functions of these mediators in CAD and SRD and summarize the evidence indicating that they are under early programming to put forward the theoretical hypothesis that the comorbidity of these diseases might be epigenetically programmed and modified over the lifespan of the individual.

Novel regulator of vasopressin secretion: phoenixin

The newly described hypothalamic peptide, phoenixin, is produced in the hypothalamus and adenohypophysis, where it acts to control reproductive hormone secretion. Both phoenixin and its receptor GPR173 are expressed in the hypothalamic supraoptic (SON) and paraventricular (PVN) nuclei, suggesting additional, nonreproductive effects of the peptide to control vasopressin (AVP) or oxytocin (OT) secretion. Hypothalamo-neurohypophysial explants released AVP but not OT in response to phoenixin. Intracerebroventricular administration of phoenixin into conscious, unrestrained male and female rats significantly increased circulating AVP, but not OT, levels in plasma, and it increased immediate early gene expression in the supraoptic nuclei of male rats. Bath application of phoenixin in hypothalamic slice preparations resulted in depolarization of PVN neurons, indicating a direct, neural action of phoenixin in the hypothalamus. Our results suggest that the newly described, hypothalamic peptide phoenixin, in addition to its effects on hypothalamic and pituitary mechanisms controlling reproduction, may contribute to the physiological mechanisms regulating fluid and electrolyte homeostasis.

Natriuretic hormones in brain function

Natriuretic hormones (NH) include three groups of compounds: the natriuretic peptides (ANP, BNP and CNP), the gastrointestinal peptides (guanylin and uroguanylin), and endogenous cardiac steroids. These substances induce the kidney to excrete sodium and therefore participate in the regulation of sodium and water homeostasis, blood volume, and blood pressure (BP). In addition to their peripheral functions, these hormones act as neurotransmitters or neuromodulators in the brain. In this review, the established information on the biosynthesis, release and function of NH is discussed, with particular focus on their role in brain function. The available literature on the expression patterns of each of the NH and their receptors in the brain is summarized, followed by the evidence for their roles in modulating brain function. Although numerous open questions exist regarding this issue, the available data support the notion that NH participate in the central regulation of BP, neuroprotection, satiety, and various psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, addiction, and depressive disorders. In addition, the interactions between the different NH in the periphery and the brain are discussed.

Angiotensin II-stimulated secretion of arginine vasopressin is inhibited by atrial natriuretic peptide in humans

We investigated the effect of the intravenous infusion of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) on the response of plasma arginine vasopressin (AVP) levels to intravenous infusion of angiotensin II (ANG II) in healthy individuals. Intravenous infusion of ANP (10 ng·kg−1·min−1) slightly but significantly decreased plasma AVP levels, while intravenous infusion of ANG II (10 ng·kg−1·min−1) resulted in slightly increased plasma AVP levels. ANG II infused significant elevations in arterial blood pressure and central venous pressure (CVP). Because the elevation in blood pressure could have potentially inhibited AVP secretion via baroreceptor reflexes, the effect of ANG II on blood pressure was attenuated by the simultaneous infusion of nitroprusside. ANG II alone produced a remarkable increase in plasma AVP levels when infused with nitroprusside, whereas the simultaneous ANP intravenous infusion (10 ng·kg−1·min−1) abolished the increase in plasma AVP levels induced by ANG II when blood pressure elevation was attenuated by nitroprusside. Thus, ANG II increased AVP secretion and ANP inhibited not only basal AVP secretion but also ANG II-stimulated AVP secretion in humans. These findings support the hypothesis that circulating ANP modulates AVP secretion, in part, by antagonizing the action of circulating ANG II.

Natriuretic peptides in brain physiology

Natriuretic peptides (NPs) regulate salt and water homeostasis by inducing natriuresis and diuresis in the kidney. These actions in addition to those via the heart and vascular system play important roles in the regulation of blood pressure. In the central nervous system NPs play a significant role in neuronal development, synaptic transmission and neuroprotection. Currently, six different human NPs have been described: atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), urodilatin (URO, renal natriuretic peptide), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), and C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) as well as guanylin and uroguanylin. ANP, URO and BNP activate the natriuretic peptide receptor A (NPR-A or guanylate cyclase A (GC-A)) while CNP activates natriuretic peptide receptor B (NPR-B or guanylate cyclase B (GC-B)). Guanylin and uroguanylin are known to activate guanylate cyclase C (GC-C). The receptors GC-A, GC-B, and GC-C are widely expressed in the human body. Currently, GC-B and CNP seems to have the highest expression in central nervous system compared to other NPs and their receptors. All known NPs generate intracellular cyclic GMP (cGMP) by activating their specific guanylate cyclase receptors. Subsequently, cGMP is able to activate protein kinase I or II (PKG I or II) and/or directly regulate transmembrane proteins such as ion channels, transporters and pumps. NPs also bind to the natriuretic peptide receptor C (also called clearance receptor NPR-C) which is a major pathway for the degradation of NPs and has no guanylate cyclase activity. In this review we will focus on new insights regarding the physiological effects of NPs in the brain, especially specific areas of their signaling pathways in neurons and glial cells.

Immunohistochemical mapping of natriuretic peptide receptor-A in the brainstem of Macaca fascicularis

Natriuretic peptide receptor-A (NPR-A) mediates the biological effects of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), and is involved in maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis. In this immunohistochemical study we examined the distribution of NPR-A in the brainstem of the cynomolgus monkey. NPR-A immunoreactivity was localized to neurons in specific brainstem regions. NPR-A-immunoreactive perikarya were found in the red nucleus and the oculomotor nucleus in the midbrain, the parabrachial nucleus and the locus coeruleus in the pons, and the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus, the hypoglossal nucleus, the cuneate nucleus, the gracile nucleus, the nucleus ambiguus, the lateral reticular nucleus, the reticular formation, and the inferior olivary nucleus in the medulla oblongata. Extensive networks of immunoreactive fibers were apparent in the red nucleus, the oculomotor nucleus, the principal sensory trigeminal nucleus, and the parabrachial nucleus. Double immunostaining revealed NPR-A immunoreactivity in cholinergic neurons of the parabrachial nucleus, the dorsal motor nucleus of vagus, the hypoglossal nucleus, and the nucleus ambiguus. However, there was no colocalization of NPR-A and tyrosine hydroxylase in the locus coeruleus. The wide anatomical distribution of NPR-A-immunoreactive structures suggests that natriuretic peptides, besides having a role in the central regulation of endocrine and cardiovascular homeostasis, may also mediate diverse physiological functions.

Role of limbic peptidergic circuits in regulation of arterial pressure, relevant to development of essential hypertension

It is generally accepted that the essential hypertension (EH) is caused by interactions among congenital gene, multiple pathogenetic pressor factors, and disorder of physiologic depressor factors. The central nervous system may play a key role in the development of EH. The underlying mechanisms, however, are not well understood. Studies show that peptidergic transmitters in the limbic forebrain are involved in long-term regulation of arterial pressure and in the pathogenesis of EH. In the limbic forebrain there are peptidergic pressor and depressor circuits. The former includes corticotropin releasing factor-, substance P-, and angiotensin II-circuits; and the latter includes beta-endorphin- and atrial natriuretic peptide-circuits. These circuits extensively interconnect and interact with each other. The altered functions of them may be the pathogenesis of EH. In this review, we focus on the roles of limbic peptidergic circuits in regulation of arterial pressure, relevant to the neurogenetic mechanisms in developing EH.

Natriuretic peptides, their receptors, and cyclic guanosine monophosphate-dependent signaling functions

Natriuretic peptides are a family of structurally related but genetically distinct hormones/paracrine factors that regulate blood volume, blood pressure, ventricular hypertrophy, pulmonary hypertension, fat metabolism, and long bone growth. The mammalian members are atrial natriuretic peptide, B-type natriuretic peptide, C-type natriuretic peptide, and possibly osteocrin/musclin. Three single membrane-spanning natriuretic peptide receptors (NPRs) have been identified. Two, NPR-A/GC-A/NPR1 and NPR-B/GC-B/NPR2, are transmembrane guanylyl cyclases, enzymes that catalyze the synthesis of cGMP. One, NPR-C/NPR3, lacks intrinsic enzymatic activity and controls the local concentrations of natriuretic peptides through constitutive receptor-mediated internalization and degradation. Single allele-inactivating mutations in the promoter of human NPR-A are associated with hypertension and heart failure, whereas homozygous inactivating mutations in human NPR-B cause a form of short-limbed dwarfism known as acromesomelic dysplasia type Maroteaux. The physiological effects of natriuretic peptides are elicited through three classes of cGMP binding proteins: cGMP-dependent protein kinases, cGMP-regulated phosphodiesterases, and cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channels. In this comprehensive review, the structure, function, regulation, and biological consequences of natriuretic peptides and their associated signaling proteins are described.

Brain-derived adrenomedullin controls blood volume through the regulation of arginine vasopressin production and release

Central nervous system-derived adrenomedullin (AM) has been shown to be a physiological regulator of thirst. Administration of AM into the lateral ventricle of the brain attenuated water intake, whereas a decrease in endogenous AM, induced by an AM-specific ribozyme, led to exaggerated water intake. We hypothesized that central AM may control fluid homeostasis, in part by regulating plasma arginine vasopressin (AVP) levels. To test this hypothesis, AM or a ribozyme specific to AM was administered intracerebroventricularly, and alterations in plasma AVP concentrations were examined under basal and stimulated (hypovolemic) conditions. Additionally, we examined changes in blood volume, kidney function, and plasma electrolyte and protein levels, as well as changes in plasma aldosterone concentrations. Intracerebroventricular administration of AM increased plasma AVP levels, whereas AM ribozyme treatment led to decreased plasma AVP levels under stimulated conditions. During hypovolemic challenges, AM ribozyme treatment led to an increased loss of plasma volume compared with control animals. Although overall plasma osmolality did not differ between treatment groups during hypovolemia, aldosterone levels were significantly higher and, consequently, plasma potassium concentrations were lower in AM ribozyme-treated rats than in controls. These data suggest that brain-derived AM is a physiological regulator of vasopressin secretion and, thereby, fluid homeostasis.

Receptor autoradiography as mean to explore the possible functional relevance of neuropeptides: focus on new agonists and antagonists to study natriuretic peptides, neuropeptide Y and calcitonin gene-related peptides

Over the past 20 years, receptor autoradiography has proven most useful to provide clues as to the role of various families of peptides expressed in the brain. Early on, we used this method to investigate the possible roles of various brain peptides. Natriuretic peptide (NP), neuropeptide Y (NPY) and calcitonin (CT) peptide families are widely distributed in the peripheral and central nervous system and induced multiple biological effects by activating plasma membrane receptor proteins. The NP family includes atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP). The NPY family is composed of at least three peptides NPY, peptide YY (PYY) and the pancreatic polypeptides (PPs). The CT family includes CT, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), amylin (AMY), adrenomedullin (AM) and two newly isolated peptides, intermedin and calcitonin receptor-stimulating peptide (CRSP). Using quantitative receptor autoradiography as well as selective agonists and antagonists for each peptide family, in vivo and in vitro assays revealed complex pharmacological responses and radioligand binding profile. The existence of heterogeneous populations of NP, NPY and CT/CGRP receptors has been confirmed by cloning. Three NP receptors have been cloned. One is a single-transmembrane clearance receptor (NPR-C) while the other two known as CG-A (or NPR-A) and CG-B (or NPR-B) are coupled to guanylate cyclase. Five NPY receptors have been cloned designated as Y(1), Y(2), Y(4), Y(5) and y(6). All NPY receptors belong to the seven-transmembrane G-protein coupled receptors family (GPCRs; subfamily type I). CGRP, AMY and AM receptors are complexes which include a GPCR (the CT receptor or CTR and calcitonin receptor-like receptor or CRLR) and a single-transmembrane domain protein known as receptor-activity-modifying-proteins (RAMPs) as well as an intracellular protein named receptor-component-protein (RCP). We review here tools that are currently available in order to target each NP, NPY and CT/CGRP receptor subtype and establish their respective pathophysiological relevance.

Dissociated central and peripheral release of vasopressin, but not oxytocin, in response to repeated swim stress: new insights into the secretory capacities of peptidergic neurons

To investigate the effects of an ethologically-relevant stressor on central and peripheral release of arginine vasopressin and oxytocin, we forced adult male Wistar rats to swim for 10 min and simultaneously measured the release of the two peptides (i) within the hypothalamic supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei (by means of the microdialysis technique) and (ii) into the blood (by chronically-implanted jugular venous catheters). Forced swimming caused a significant rise in the release of arginine vasopressin and oxytocin within both the supraoptic nuclei (four-fold and three-fold, respectively) and the paraventricular nuclei (three-fold and four- to five-fold, respectively). Release patterns measured before, during and after repeated stress exposure on three consecutive days indicated that, at the level of the hypothalamus, the two neuropeptides are critically involved in the rats' stress response in a peptide-, locus- and stress-specific manner. Particularly, despite a general reduction of the recovery of the microdialysis probes over the time, the release of arginine vasopressin within the paraventricular nuclei and of oxytocin within the supraoptic nuclei tended to increase upon repeated stress exposure. Measurement of plasma peptide concentrations revealed that the central release of oxytocin was accompanied by a secretion of this peptide into the systemic circulation. In contrast, arginine vasopressin, assayed in the same plasma samples, failed to respond to the stressor. The latter finding is consistent with a dissociated release of the neuropeptide from different parts of a single neuron (soma/dendrites vs axon terminals). It provides evidence that under physiological conditions plasma hormone levels do not necessarily reflect the secretory activity of central components of the respective neuropeptidergic system.

Atrial natriuretic hormone decreases endocrine response to a combined dexamethasone-corticotropin-releasing hormone test

BACKGROUND

An escape from the dexamethasone-induced suppression of pituitary-adrenocortical activity can be provoked by corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) in depressed patients, but not in healthy controls. One important antagonist of the CRH-stimulated secretion of corticotropin (ACTH) and cortisol is atrial natriuretic hormone (ANH).

METHODS

To study a potential role of ANH in the dexamethasone-CRH test, we investigated 7 healthy men who did not suppress cortisol below 40 ng/mL after they had received 0.5 mg dexamethasone the evening before.

RESULTS

We found 1) that the CRH-stimulated ACTH and cortisol secretion was significantly reduced by the administration of ANH in comparison to saline; and 2) that there was an increased pituitary-adrenocortical ratio.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results support the view that ANH may also be involved in the frequently observed nonsuppression after dexamethasone during depression. Biol Psychiatry.

Presence of atrial natriuretic peptide in two desert rodents: comparison with rat

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) was characterized and assayed in plasmas, hearts, and brains of two Algerian desert rodents, Psammomys obesus and Meriones libycus along with vasopressin, which was assayed in hypophyses and hypothalami. Using reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography and radioimmunoassay, we showed, in plasmas and hearts of both species of desert rats, the presence of peptides similar to rat N- and C-terminal ANP but in lower amounts than in Wistar rats. Conversely, C-terminal ANP was abundantly detected in hypophyses from Meriones libycus rats. As these peptides, through their diuretic and natriuretic activities, are involved in body fluid regulation and electrolyte balance, the reduction of ANP stores in both plasmas and hearts suggests that diuresis and natriuresis are lowered in both species of mammals adapted to arid environments. This could occur because of the vasopressin-mediated adaptation, but also in response to the low ANP involvement in hydro-osmotic regulations, even in Psammomys, which has a dietary salt loading. On the other hand, the higher C-terminal ANP contents in the hypophysis of Meriones than in Psammomys and Wistar rats remain to be understood.

Atrial natriuretic peptide modulates synaptic transmission from osmoreceptor afferents to the supraoptic nucleus

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and its receptors are present in hypothalamic nuclei containing the magnocellular neurosecretory cells (MNCs), which release vasopressin and oxytocin. In the rat, intracerebroventricular injections of ANP inhibit the release of both hormones in response to hypertonicity. Although these findings suggest a role for endogenous ANP in the central control of fluid balance, cellular mechanisms underlying the modulatory actions of ANP are unknown. We therefore examined the effects of ANP on the osmoresponsiveness of MNCs impaled in rat hypothalamic explants. Applications of ANP (75-150 nM) over the supraoptic nucleus did not affect depolarizing responses to local hypertonicity, but they reversibly abolished the synaptic excitation of MNCs after hypertonic stimulation of the organum vasculosum laminae terminalis (OVLT). These effects were associated with decreased spontaneous EPSP (sEPSP) amplitude rather than with changes in sEPSP frequency. Accordingly, application of ANP reduced the amplitude of glutamatergic EPSPs evoked by electrical stimulation of the OVLT (IC50 approximately 3 nM). The inhibitory effects of ANP on EPSP amplitude were mimicked by application of 3'-5'-dibutyryl cGMP, consistent with the guanylate cyclase activity of natriuretic peptide receptors. Although depolarizing responses of MNCs to ionotropic glutamate receptor agonists were unaffected by ANP, the peptide reversibly enhanced paired-pulse facilitation of electrically evoked EPSPs. These results indicate that centrally released ANP may inhibit osmotically evoked neurohypophysial hormone release through presynaptic inhibition of glutamate release from osmoreceptor afferents derived from the OVLT.

Fluid balance in rats of three different strains after inhibition of histamine catabolism

The effect of metoprine, an inhibitor of histamine (HA) catabolism, on fluid balance was studied in Wistar (W) and Long-Evans (LE) rats. AVP deficient Brattleboro (BB) rats were used to evaluate which phenomena were AVP-related. W and LE rats were quite different: LE rats were "dry" rats, they drank less, had higher plasma AVP, smaller urine volume and excreted more AVP, and responded less to salt loading and water deprivation. Furthermore, LE and W rats responded differently to metoprine. When water was provided as drinking fluid, metoprine increased water intake and urine flow in W rats, but these changes were not significant in LE rats. In contrast, when the rats drank saline, urine output and saline consumption were similarly decreased in LE and W rats. Although no metoprine-induced changes in plasma AVP were observed, urinary excretion of AVP per 24 h was reduced in metoprine treated rats. Inhibition of HA catabolism by metoprine caused only minor changes in fluid balance of AVP deficient BB rats. The results show that significant differences in fluid balance can exist between rat strains and that increased availability of HA after IP given metoprine strongly affects body fluids in normal rats, especially those of the W strain. The results provide further support to the involvement of HA in the regulation of fluid balance, but to obtain a more complete picture, other factors, such as atrial natriuretic peptide, should be studied.

Distribution of natriuretic peptide precursor mRNAs in the rat brain

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), and C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) represent members of a recently discovered neuropeptide family involved in central regulation of endocrine and autonomic functions. The present study employed an in situ hybridization approach to provide the first detailed comparative mapping of ANP, BNP, and CNP mRNAs in brain. Results indicate that ANP mRNA is highly expressed in anterior olfactory nuclei, limbic cortices, dorsal endopiriform nucleus, hippocampal subfield CA1, cortical amygdaloid nuclei, medial habenula, anteroventral periventricular and arcuate nuclei, periventricular stratum, zona incerta, mammillary nuclei, inferior olive, nucleus ambiguus, and pontine paragigantocellular nuclei. CNP mRNA is expressed at highest levels in olfactory nuclei, limbic cortices, dorsal endopiriform nucleus, hippocampal subfields CA1-3, anteroventral periventricular and arcuate nuclei, and numerous brainstem regions (including the pontine, lateral reticular, solitary tract, prepositus hypoglossal, and spinal trigeminal nuclei). Positive labeling for BNP mRNA was not observed in brain. The presence of both ANP and CNP mRNA in the same regions of distinct nuclei (e.g., the anteroventral periventricular and arcuate nuclei) suggests the potential for coexpression. Overall, the present data are consistent with a prominent role for both ANP and CNP in neuroendocrine regulation and central cardiovascular integration. The extensive localization of ANP and/or CNP mRNA in olfactory nuclei, limbic cortex, hippocampus, amygdala and diencephalic limbic relays further indicate a putative role for ANP and CNP as neuromodulators of olfactory/limbic information processing.

Intracerebroventricular ANP(1-28) has no obvious effects on renal blood flow and function in conscious sheep

1. The study examines whether intracerebroventricular (ICV) infusion of atrial natriuretic peptide (human ANP,1-28) influences renal electrolyte and water excretion, vasopressin release, renal and femoral blood flows in conscious ewes. The blood flow was measured by chronically implanted ultrasonic flow probes. 2. ICV infusion of ANP(1-28) at 25 pmol/min for 60 min did not affect renal Na and K excretion or plasma vasopressin levels. In two out of six animals a mild water diuresis developed at about 50 min post-infusion. 3. The plasma osmolality, Na, K and protein concentrations did not change during the experiments. 4. The renal and femoral arterial blood flows were not influenced by 30 min ICV infusions of ANP(1-28) at 25 and 85 pmol/min. 5. It is concluded that human ANP(1-28) has no, or negligible, effects on renal function, femoral and renal blood flow when given ICV in amounts obviously elevating cerebrospinal fluid levels far above normal.

Colocalization of natriuretic peptide and estrogen receptor immunoreactivities in preoptic nuclei in the female rat

Estrogen is known to play an important role in regulating reproductive function in female rats through actions exerted at the preoptic area, a part of the brain that is markedly sexually dimorphic and which contains abundant estrogen receptors. A critical question to our understanding of estrogen's action on the brain is to identify the types of neurons that contain estrogen receptors (ER). Previous studies have shown that atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) is in abundance in the preoptic area, and that ANP and other natriuretic peptides are capable of regulating gonadotropin secretion. In an effort to determine whether ERs are present in natriuretic peptide-immunoreactive (NP-ir) neurons in the preoptic area of the rat, double label immunocytochemistry was performed. Since ER-ir, as demonstrated with antibody H222 is known to be localized predominantly in cell nuclei, while NP-ir is present in the cytoplasm, single cells can be double labeled. Diaminobenzidine tetrahydrochloride was used for localization of NP-ir neurons, while nickel-enhanced diaminobenzidine tetrahydrochloride was used for localization of ER-ir. The results revealed that many nuclei throughout the preoptic area contained neurons that were ER-ir or NP-ir and that a substantial number were double labeled. Cell counts in selected preoptic nuclei and components, including the anteroventral periventricular nucleus, periventricular preoptic nucleus, medial part of the medial preoptic nucleus, and central part of the medial preoptic nucleus revealed that 13.6%, 11.1%, 13.5%, and 24.4%, respectively, of the NP-ir neurons in these nuclei also contained ER-ir. Collectively, a total of 14.9% of the NP-ir neurons in these nuclei also contained ER-ir.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Brain atriopeptin mediates AV3V depressor response

In urethane-anesthetized rats, sodium L-glutamate (Glu) microinjection into the anteroventral third ventricle region (AV3V) induced a depressor response, but the heart rate remained unchanged, whereas Glu injection into its surrounding areas or normal saline injection into the AV3V had no effect on the arterial pressure and heart rate. Bilateral preinjection of procaine or atriopeptin III antiserum into the nucleus paraventricularis (NPV) and methyl atropine (IV) markedly attenuated the AV3V depressor response, but the hypotensive response was not significantly affected by phentolamine or propranolol (IV), indicating that atriopeptin in the NPV mediates the AV3V depressor response, and excitation of the cardiac vagus is also involved in this response.

CNS effects of peptides: a cross-listing of peptides and their central actions published in the journal Peptides, 1986-1993

The centrally mediated effects of peptides as published in the journal Peptides from 1986 to 1993 are tabulated in two ways. In one table, the peptides are listed alphabetically. In another table, the effects are arranged alphabetically. Most of the effects observed after administration of peptides are grouped, wherever possible, into categories such as cardiovascular and gastrointestinal. The species used in most cases has been rats; where other animals were used, the species is noted. The route of administration of peptides and source of information also are included in the tables, with a complete listing provided at the end. Many peptides have been shown to exert a large number of centrally mediated effects.

Effect of ACE inhibitors on atrial natriuretic factor in the brains of rats with reduced renal mass

We tested the effect of renal insufficiency, with and without angiotensin (Ang) converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition, on blood and brain atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) in rats. Two ACEs, one which penetrates into the CNS and one which does not, were used to distinguish between peripheral and central ACE effects. Rats underwent 5/6 nephrectomy (5/6-NPX) by ligation of renal arterial branches. After seven days, 28 5/6-NPX rats received lisinopril 20 mg/kg/day and 28 5/6-NPX rats received quinapril 30 mg/kg/day orally for five days, while 28 5/6-NPX control rats and 28 sham rats did not. Body weight, blood pressure, drinking and urine volume were monitored. At sacrifice, urine, plasma, and brain tissue was collected. ANF in 16 brain areas was measured by radioimmunoassay. 5/6-NPX resulted in increased blood pressure, increased urine volume, proteinuria, and increased drinking. Both ACEs lowered blood pressure to sham values and decreased proteinuria. Both ACEs increased plasma renin activity and decreased plasma ANF. However, only lisinopril decreased drinking and urine volume. 5/6-NPX increased ANF values in six brain areas, namely the periventricular preoptic nucleus, the arcuate nucleus, the perifornical nucleus, the periventricular hypothalamic nucleus, the paraventricular nucleus, and the dorsal raphe nucleus compared to sham rats. These same increases in brain ANF were also observed in 5/6-NPX rats given quinapril, compared to shams. However, lisinopril lowered ANF to sham levels in the periventricular preoptic nucleus, the arcuate nucleus, and the perifornical nucleus. In the three additional brain areas, namely the periventricular hypothalamic nucleus, the paraventricular nucleus, and the dorsal raphe nucleus, lisinopril did not effect the elevated ANF concentrations.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Atrial natriuretic factor reduces vasopressin and angiotensin II but not the ACTH response to acute hypoglycaemic stress in normal men

OBJECTIVE

We determined the effects of physiological (non-hypotensive) increments of plasma atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) on the vasopressin and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal response to insulin induced hypoglycaemia.

DESIGN

Single blind, placebo controlled, randomized study of the effect of vehicle alone or ANF (2.5 pmol/kg/min for 120 minutes) commencing 30 minutes before bolus administration of insulin (0.15 U/kg body weight).

RESULTS

ANF infusion raised venous plasma ANF levels four to five-fold (mean level 32 +/- 0.3 pmol/l at time of insulin injection) without affecting resting blood pressure or heart rate. After insulin, the fall in plasma glucose and rise in plasma adrenaline and noradrenaline were similar in both studies. In contrast, the responses in plasma arginine vasopressin (P < 0.02) and in plasma angiotensin II (P < 0.05) were inhibited by ANF. Plasma corticotrophin releasing factor, ACTH and cortisol responses to hypoglycaemic stress did not differ significantly in the presence and absence of ANF.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that four to five-fold acute increase in plasma ANF, while attenuating vasopressin and angiotensin II responses to hypoglycaemia, does not inhibit the hypothalamic, pituitary and adrenal responses or inhibit sympathetic nervous activation in normal men.

Mechanisms underlying chemoreceptor inhibition induced by atrial natriuretic peptide in rabbit carotid body

1. Previous studies in our laboratory revealed the presence of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in preneural chemosensory type I cells of the cat carotid body, and demonstrated that submicromolar concentrations of the peptide inhibited carotid sinus nerve (CSN) activity evoked by hypoxia. In the present study, we have evaluated the role of the cyclic nucleotide second messenger, cyclic GMP (cGMP), and the involvement of type I cells in rabbit chemosensory inhibition. 2. Submicromolar concentrations of the potent ANP analogue, APIII, greatly elevated both the content and release of cGMP from the carotid body. Denervation experiments confirmed earlier immunocytochemical studies which suggested that APIII-induced cGMP production occurs almost exclusively in type I cells; these experiments also indicate that both the sympathetic and sensory innervation to the carotid body exert a trophic influence on the metabolism of this second messenger. 3. Submicromolar concentrations of APIII inhibited the CSN activity evoked by hypoxia (79.8 +/- 3.2% (mean +/- S.E.M.) inhibition with 100 nM APIII) and nicotine (74.5 +/- 3.6% inhibition with 100 nM APIII), but did not affect basal CSN activity established in 100% O2-equilibrated superfusion solutions. 4. The biologically inactive analogue of ANP, C-ANP, failed to produce CSN inhibition; however, the inhibitory effects of APIII were mimicked by cell-permeant analogues of cGMP (dibutyryl-cGMP and 8-bromo-cGMP, 2 mM), which likewise did not alter basal CSN activity. Because we found that unmodified cGMP was an ineffective inhibitor of CSN activity, our data suggest that APIII inhibition is mediated intracellularly by cGMP produced within the type I cells. 5. APIII does not inhibit the CSN activity produced by 20 mM K+ (in zero Ca2+ media), which very probably results from direct depolarization of the sensory nerve terminals. 6. Catecholamine release from the carotid body evoked by hypoxia is likewise not altered by APIII (100 nM). 7. The data are consistent with the notion that APIII and analogues of cGMP alter the release of excitatory and/or inhibitory transmitters from chemosensory type I cells in the carotid body.

C-type natriuretic Peptide stimulates prolactin secretion by a hypothalamic site of action

The most recently discovered member of the family of natriuretic peptides, C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP), exerts many pharmacologic actions similar to its structural homolog A-type natriuretic peptide (ANP). Like ANP it failed to significantly alter prolactin release from dispersed, rat anterior pituitary cells incubated under static or dynamic conditions. Unlike ANP, however, which inhibits prolactin secretion in vivo by a hypothalamic action, CNP injection into the third cerebroventricle significantly stimulated prolactin secretion in ovariectomized, conscious rats. The effect was highly significant 15 min after injection and transient, lasting 30 min in animals injected with 2 nmole CNP. In a companion group of rats, significant inhibition of plasma prolactin levels was observed after central administration of similar doses of ANP. These results suggest differing hypothalamic actions of the CNP and ANP perhaps mediated by multiple natriuretic peptide receptors present in the tissue. Further, they provide additional support for unique roles exerted within the central nervous system by these structural homologs.

Effects of atrial natriuretic peptide on acute and chronic effects of morphine

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) is known to participate in different vegetative functions. The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of ANP on nociception itself, pain sensitivity to morphine, and the development of acute and chronic tolerance to morphine. Morphine withdrawal signs were also evaluated by injecting naloxone. In adult, male NMRI mice, ANP administered SC or ICV did not affect pain sensitivity itself in a heat-radiant tail-flick test. Peptide treatment, however, depressed the acute nociceptive effect of a single dose of morphine (4 mg/kg, SC) after both SC (20-200 ng/animal) and ICV (5, 10, 20, or 200 ng/animal) ANP administration. ANP given SC and ICV attenuated the development of acute morphine tolerance. Acute morphine tolerance was assessed by giving a bolus injection of morphine (60 mg/kg) 24 h before the pain sensitivity to a challenge dose of morphine (4 mg/kg) was measured. ICV treatment with ANP also blocked the development of chronic morphine tolerance, but did not affect the appearance of naloxone-precipitated withdrawal syndromes. ANP seems to act differently on the development of tolerance to and dependence upon morphine.

Localization of binding sites for atrial natriuretic factor and angiotensin II in the central nervous system of the clawed toad Xenopus laevis

The distribution of binding sites for atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) and angiotensin II (A II) was investigated in the central nervous system (CNS) of the clawed toad Xenopus laevis by means of in vitro autoradiography using [125I]-rat ANF(99-126) or [125I] [Val5] A II and [125I]human A II as labeled ligands. The highest densities of specific ANF-binding were detected in the nucleus habenularis, thalamic regions, hypophyseal pars nervosa and nucleus interpeduncularis. Moderate ANF-binding was found in the bulbus olfactorius, pallium, septum, striatum, lateral forebrain bundle, nucleus infundibularis, hypophyseal pars distalis and tectum. The highest levels of specific A II binding sites were observed in the nucleus praeopticus, nucleus habenularis, hypophyseal pars nervosa and pars distalis, whereas the amygdala contained moderate A II binding. The existence of specific binding sites for ANF and A II in the CNS of Xenopus laevis suggests that both peptides act as neurotransmitters or neuromodulators in the amphibian CNS. The co-localization of dense binding sites for both peptides in the nucleus habenularis, hypophyseal pars nervosa and pars distalis supports the view that ANF and A II have opposite regulatory functions in these regions.

Atrial natriuretic factor inhibits the CRH-stimulated secretion of ACTH and cortisol in man

Corticotrophic secretion of ACTH is stimulated by corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and arginine vasopressin (AVP), and suppressed by glucocorticoids. In vitro and preclinical studies suggest that atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) may be a peptidergic inhibitor of pituitary-adrenocortical activity. The aim of this study was to elucidate a possible role of ANF as a modulator of ACTH release in humans. A bolus injection of 100 micrograms human CRH (hCRH) during a 30 min intravenous infusion of 5 micrograms/min human alpha atrial natriuretic factor (h alpha ANF) was administered at 19:00 to six healthy male volunteers. In comparison to saline, a blunted CRH-stimulated secretion of ACTH (mean maximum plasma level +/- SD 45 min after hCRH: saline 46.2 +/- 14.2 pg/ml, h alpha ANF 34.6 +/- 13.8 pg/ml, p-value = 0.007) and a delayed rise (10 min) in cortisol were detected. The maximum plasma cortisol levels remained nearly unchanged between saline and h alpha ANF administration (mean maximum plasma level +/- SD 60 min after hCRH: saline 182 +/- 26 ng/ml, h alpha ANF 166 +/- 54 ng/ml). No effects of h alpha ANF on basal cortisol levels were observed; in contrast, basal ACTH plasma levels were slightly reduced. Basal blood pressure and heart rate remained unaffected. In the control experiment, infusion of 3 IU AVP in the same experimental paradigm increased basal and stimulated ACTH and cortisol levels significantly in comparison to saline. These observations suggest that intravenously administered haANF inhibits the CRH-stimulated release of ACTH in man.

Localization and quantification of atrial natriuretic factor binding sites in the kidney of Xenopus laevis

Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) binding sites in the skin, the bladder, and the kidney of the anuran amphibian Xenopus laevis were localized and quantified using quantitative in vitro autoradiography. Specific binding of 125I-rANF occurred only in the glomeruli and in the adrenal tissue of the kidney. The association of 125I-rANF binding was much higher than the dissociation and there was no steady state between the ligand and the binding sites. Scatchard and Hill's analyses of saturation experiments showed 125I-rANF to bind to heterogeneous sites with positive cooperativity. The effective concentrations, where 50% of maximal binding occurs (EC50), in glomeruli and in adrenal tissue were 75.7 +/- 8.5 and 74.7 +/- 12.1 pM (n = 8), respectively. The corresponding maximum binding capacities (Bmax) were 0.847 +/- 0.131 fM/mm2 in glomeruli and 1.161 +/- 0.179 fM/mm2 in adrenal tissue. Displacement studies have demonstrated the same affinity of these 125I-rANF binding sites to unlabeled rANF, hANF, and rAtriopeptin II, while 125I-labeled rANF had a much higher affinity. The N-terminal ANF fragment (99-109) and the C-terminal rANF fragment (116-126) had only weak displacing effects, whereas unrelated peptides did not alter the binding of 125I-rANF. The osmotic stress of acclimation to 1.5% salt water increased renal but not adrenal ANF binding.

CNP-22 stimulates, rather than inhibits, water drinking in the rat: evidence for a unique biological action of the C-type natriuretic peptides

C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) shares structural homology with A-type natriuretic peptide (ANP). Unlike ANP, which inhibits experimentally induced water drinking, CNP stimulates intake under similar conditions. The action of CNP to stimulate water drinking is not due to competition with ANP for the clearance receptor which recognizes both peptides since the ligand specific for that binding site, C-ANF 4-23, like ANP, inhibits water drinking under the same conditions.

Binding sites for atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) on cultured pituicytes: lack of effect of ANP on release of neurohypophysial hormones in vitro

Receptors for atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) are known to be present in the posterior pituitary gland and this is a possible site of action of ANP to modulate neurohypophysial hormone release. Pituicytes cultured from adult rat neurohypophyses are shown to possess high affinity binding sites for ANP, suggesting that in vivo a population of neurohypophysial ANP receptors are present on these astrocytic glial cells. alpha-rANP (1-100 nM) did not modulate the basal or electrically stimulated release of oxytocin or vasopressin from the isolated neurohypophysis in vitro. The physiological significance of the glial ANP binding sites thus remains unknown.

Centrally administered atriopeptin III reduces water intake and vasopressin secretion in dehydrated sheep

Two experiments were carried out to investigate the responses of sheep (N = 6) to intracerebroventricular (ICV) injections of atriopeptin III [atrial natriuretic factor (5-28), AP III]. In Experiment, 1, 24-h dehydrated animals were given 0 (saline vehicle control), 10 or 30 micrograms AP III directly before the presentation of water. The highest dose of AP III significantly (p less than 0.02) reduced the amount of water drunk in the subsequent 20 min. In Experiment 2, blood samples were taken at various intervals before and after ICV injection of 0 or 30 micrograms AP III when the sheep were water replete or 24-h dehydrated. Plasma concentrations of vasopressin (AVP) and cortisol were measured and estimates were made of plasma osmolality. In the dehydration condition, AVP levels were somewhat reduced (p less than 0.059) after AP III administration but no decrease was observed when the animals were euhydrated. No significant changes in plasma osmolality or cortisol concentrations were observed in response to AP III or the saline vehicle. Because a large dose of AP III (30 micrograms ICV) was required to produce the comparatively small behavioral and endocrine effects observed in this study, the results are suggestive of a pharmacological, rather than a physiological, action of the peptide in this species.

Atrial natriuretic peptide-induced suppression of basal and dehydration-induced vasopressin secretion is not mediated by hypothalamic tuberohypophysial or tuberoinfundibular dopaminergic neurons

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) on the secretion of vasopressin and the activities of hypothalamic tuberohypophysial and tuberoinfundibular dopaminergic neurons in normal and dehydrated male rats. Neuronal activity was estimated by measuring the concentrations of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) and dopamine (DA) in brain and posterior pituitary regions containing terminals of tuberohypophysial (neural lobe; intermediate lobe) and tuberoinfundibular (median eminence) DA neurons. Intracerebroventricular (icv) administration of 20 micrograms ANP decreased basal arginine vasopressin concentrations in the plasma, but had no effect on the concentrations of DOPAC or DA in any region examined. Water deprivation caused a time-dependent increase in plasma arginine vasopressin concentrations, with maximal levels measured 2 days after removal of water bottles. Water deprivation had no effect on DOPAC concentrations in the neural lobe, intermediate lobe or median eminence, but increased DA concentrations in the neural lobe. ANP (20 micrograms/rat; icv) decreased arginine vasopressin concentrations in the plasma of water-deprived rats without altering DOPAC or DA concentrations in the neural lobe, intermediate lobe or median eminence. These results indicate that ANP-induced suppression of basal and dehydration-induced vasopressin secretion is not mediated by tuberohypophysial or tuberoinfundibular DA neurons.

Atriopeptin prevents angiotensin II-stimulated glucose utilization in the subfornical organ

Previous studies have shown that angiotensin II (ANG II) increases glucose utilization in the subfornical organ and stimulates drinking behavior. We investigated with the deoxyglucose method whether atriopeptin III, an atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), would prevent this enhanced glucose metabolism and interfere with the drinking response in the presence of ANG II. Two rat models with high circulating levels of ANG II were studied: the homozygous Brattleboro and ANG II-infused Sprague-Dawley rats. ANP decreased the normally enhanced glucose utilization in the subfornical organ in the Brattleboro rat and inhibited ANG II-stimulated glucose metabolism in the subfornical organ of Sprague-Dawley rats. This effect was accompanied by decreased ANG II-stimulated water intake. These findings indicate that ANP may act at the level of subfornical organ to antagonize the dipsogenic action of ANG II.

Angiotensin II and atrial natriuretic peptide in the brain: effects on volume and Na+ balance

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and angiotensin II (ANG II), although originally isolated from peripheral sources, are now known to be present in the central nervous system. The distribution of the peptides and their binding sites are found in areas involved in cardiovascular and volume/electrolyte regulation. Since ANP administered centrally can antagonize the actions of ANG II, the two peptides may function as opposing mechanisms involved in maintaining fluid and electrolyte homeostasis.

Vasodilator properties of atrial natriuretic factor: a comparison with nitroglycerin, nitroprusside, and phentolamine during cardiopulmonary bypass

Thirty-five patients scheduled for coronary artery surgery were studied during hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) to compare the arteriolar and venodilator properties of a bolus dose of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), 100 micrograms, with those of nitroglycerin, 200 micrograms, sodium nitroprusside, 120 micrograms, phentolamine, 3 mg, and placebo. A decrease observed in mean arterial pressure was used as an indicator of a decrease in systemic vascular resistance (arteriolar dilation), while a decrease in reservoir blood volume of the CPB circuit was considered to indicate an increase in venous capacitance (venodilation). All vasodilators decreased mean arterial pressure, and there was no difference in the maximal decrease of the pressure between the drugs. However, the decrease caused by ANF appeared later than that caused by the other vasodilators and lasted longer than with nitroglycerin and sodium nitroprusside. Nitroglycerin and sodium nitroprusside decreased reservoir blood volume, while ANF and phentolamine had no effect. It is concluded that ANF is an arteriolar dilator with a time profile of its effect differing from those of nitroglycerin, sodium nitroprusside, and phentolamine. ANF seems to have no venodilator activity in patients undergoing hypothermic CPB.