EFFECTS OF ANF PROHORMONE PEPTIDES IN CONSCIOUS PRIMATES

1. Recent studies suggest that amino-terminal peptides from the atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) prohormone are natriuretic. 2. The effects of pro ANF 31-67 and ANF 99-126 on renal function were studied in conscious non-human primates (Macaca fascicularis). 3. Results show that pro ANF 31-67 and ANF 99-126 are diuretic and natriuretic and that when the two peptides are given in combination sodium excretion increases in an additive fashion. 4. These results indicate that multiple peptides from the ANF prohormone are natriuretic. Furthermore, these findings suggest that the combined action of these peptides causes the natriuresis that occurs after the release of endogenous atrial peptides.