title: Genetic polymorphisms of the natriuretic peptide system in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease: what lies on the horizon?
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The natriuretic peptide hormone family includes various proteins characterized by similar chemical structure and shared biological functions, with important effects on the cardiovascular system. Accordingly, these molecules are widely recognized as key clinical biomarkers in the diagnosis and monitoring of heart failure, hypertension, and coronary heart disease.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  Several single-nucleotide polymorphisms have been recently identified in genes associated with the natriuretic system. This review provides an overview of new insights into the functional role of these genetic variants, as well as their impact on cardiovascular physiopathology and drug response.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Noteworthy relationships between some specific polymorphisms and clinical correlates of cardiovascular disease have emerged. Nevertheless, future confirming studies are needed to substantiate the clinical relevance of such variants.
authors.affiliation: Fondazione G Monasterio and Institute of Clinical Physiology, Italian National Research Council, Pisa, Italy. cristina.vassalle@ifc.cnr.it
authors.forename: Cristina
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Vassalle
authors.forename: Maria Grazia
authors.initials: MG
authors.lastname: Andreassi