THE CONTEXT
Cardiomyocytes secrete peptides with humoral effects on the vasculature and kidneys. Their release responds to stretch, and their breakdown involves neprilysin.
Atrial natriuretic peptide
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Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP)* is a 28-amino acid peptide released by atrial myocytes in response to stretch.
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ANP causes vasodilatation and reduces blood pressure. It also acts as a diuretic by promoting renal excretion of water and sodium.
B-type natriuretic peptide
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B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP)* is a 32-amino acid peptide produced by ventricular cardiomyocytes in response to stretch, as occurs in heart failure.
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BNP has diuretic properties, like ANP.
Neprilysin and heart failure
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Neprilysin is an enzyme produced by the kidney and other tissues that breaks down ANP, BNP and other proteins.
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Through this breakdown, neprilysin acts as a vasoconstrictor and forms a therapeutic target in heart failure.