C-type natriuretic peptide: new candidate for endothelium-derived hyperpolarising factor.
Endothelium-derived hyperpolarising factor (EDHF) is an important regulator of vascular tone; however, its identity is still unclear. Several different molecules have been suggested, the most recent of which is the 22-amino acid peptide C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP). CNP induces hyperpolarisation and relaxation of rat mesenteric resistance artery vascular smooth muscle through activation of natriuretic peptide receptor subtype C (NPR-C) and the same potassium channels as EDHF. In addition, this peptide is released from endothelial cells of the perfused rat mesenteric bed in response to endothelium-dependent vasodilators. Thus, CNP is likely to play a vital role in regulation of vascular tone. In addition, since there is evidence that up-regulation of EDHF occurs where normal endothelium function has been compromised, modulation of this pathway represents a novel target for therapeutics in the treatment of inflammatory cardiovascular pathologies characterised by endothelial dysfunction.
Chauhan
S D
SD
Clinical Pharmacology, The William Harvey Research Institute, Barts & The London, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6BQ, UK.
Hobbs
A J
AJ
Ahluwalia
A
A
D000818:Animals; D001685:Biological Factors / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000494:pharmacology; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy; D004730:Endothelium, Vascular / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D020098:Natriuretic Peptide, C-Type / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000494:pharmacology
D001685:Biological Factors; C067410:endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization factor; D020098:Natriuretic Peptide, C-Type