Cardiovascular · Natriuretic Peptide
Urodilatin
Also known as URO
A 32-amino-acid natriuretic peptide, an isoform of ANP, studied for its effects on renal function and sodium excretion via NPR-A activation.
- Length
- 32 amino acids
- Half-life
- Approx. 3-4 minutes (plasma)
- Mechanism
- Urodilatin binds to natriuretic peptide receptor-A (NPR-A), stimulating guanylate cyclase to increase intracellular cGMP, particularly in renal tissues.
- Studied in
- In vitro and ex vivo research focuses on its effects on renal sodium and water excretion, vascular tone, and models of kidney function.
About Urodilatin
Urodilatin is a 32-amino-acid peptide hormone that is structurally related to atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP). It is produced in the kidney by alternative processing of the same prohormone that yields ANP. Urodilatin is identical to ANP except for an additional four amino acids (Ala-Pro-Leu-Arg) at the N-terminus.
This peptide is a ligand for the natriuretic peptide receptor-A (NPR-A), activating its intrinsic guanylyl cyclase domain. This activation leads to increased production of cyclic GMP (cGMP), which mediates its biological effects. Laboratory models use Urodilatin to study renal physiology, specifically its role in natriuresis and diuresis, often showing greater resistance to enzymatic degradation within the kidney compared to ANP. It is also a reference compound with a clinical history.
Laboratory notes
- Urodilatin is more resistant to degradation by neutral endopeptidase (NEP) compared to ANP, a key consideration for comparative renal perfusion studies.
- Reconstitute in a sterile, slightly acidic buffer (e.g., water with 0.1% acetic acid) to ensure full solubility of the lyophilised powder.
- For cell culture experiments, filter-sterilize the reconstituted solution through a 0.22 µm syringe filter before adding to media.
Storage and reconstitution basics: storage guide.
Questions about Urodilatin
Is Urodilatin the same as Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP)?
No, Urodilatin is an N-terminally extended isoform of ANP, containing four additional amino acids. This structural difference alters its processing and local activity, particularly in the kidney.
What is the source of Urodilatin in biological systems?
Urodilatin is synthesized and secreted by cells of the distal and collecting tubules of the kidney, acting as a local paracrine regulator.
Why is Urodilatin used in renal research?
Its potent natriuretic and diuretic effects, coupled with its relative resistance to local degradation in the kidney, make it a valuable tool for studying renal fluid and electrolyte balance in ex vivo kidney models.
Is Urodilatin for human use?
No. It is supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research and is not for human or animal consumption.
Related research peptides
All products are sold for laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption, not a medicine, not for diagnosing, treating or preventing any condition.