Cardiovascular · Polypeptide hormone
Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP)
Also known as ANF, Atrial Natriuretic Factor
A 28-amino acid cardiac hormone used in research to study vasodilation, natriuresis, and the regulation of blood pressure and fluid volume.
- Length
- 28 amino acids
- Half-life
- 2-5 minutes (in plasma)
- Mechanism
- Binds to the natriuretic peptide receptor-A (NPR-A), a guanylyl cyclase-linked receptor, to promote vasodilation, natriuresis, and diuresis via cGMP production.
- Studied in
- Utilized in cardiovascular and renal physiology studies to investigate blood pressure regulation, fluid homeostasis, and NPR-A signaling pathways.
About Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP)
Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP) is a 28-amino acid hormone primarily synthesized and secreted by cardiac atrial myocytes in response to atrial wall stretch. It plays a crucial role in maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis by regulating blood pressure, blood volume, and sodium balance. The active human form is often designated as α-ANP.
ANP functions as a physiological antagonist to the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). Its mechanism involves binding to the natriuretic peptide receptor-A (NPR-A), which activates guanylyl cyclase and increases intracellular cGMP. This signaling cascade leads to vasodilation, suppression of aldosterone, and increased renal excretion of sodium (natriuresis) and water (diuresis), making ANP a key compound in studies of cardiovascular and renal function.
Laboratory notes
- The active 28-amino acid peptide is cleaved from the C-terminus of a 126-amino acid prohormone.
- ANP is cleared from circulation by the natriuretic peptide receptor-C (NPR-C) and degradation by neutral endopeptidase.
- For in vitro work, use of low-binding tubes and plates is recommended to prevent loss of peptide due to adsorption.
Storage and reconstitution basics: storage guide.
Questions about Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP)
Where is ANP primarily produced?
ANP is synthesized, stored, and secreted by muscle cells in the atria of the heart in response to increased blood volume and pressure.
What is the intracellular second messenger for ANP signaling?
ANP signals through the NPR-A receptor, which has intrinsic guanylyl cyclase activity, leading to the production of cyclic GMP (cGMP) as the second messenger.
How does ANP's function relate to the RAAS?
ANP counteracts the RAAS. While the RAAS increases blood pressure and sodium retention, ANP promotes vasodilation and sodium excretion, thereby lowering blood pressure.
Is Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP) for human use?
No. It is supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research and is not for human or animal consumption.
Related research peptides
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