Natriuretic peptides comprise a family of three structurally related molecules: atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP). BNP undergoes two cleavage events, one within the cell and a second after secretion into the blood. The protein's biological actions include natriuresis, diuresis, vasorelaxation, inhibition of renin and aldosterone secretion, and a key role in cardiovascular homeostasis. ANP, BNP and CNP are highly homologous within the 17-residue ring structure formed by an intramolecular disulfide linkage.
