BNP Human

B-type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP), also known as Brain Natriuretic Peptide, is a hormone produced by your heart. It plays a crucial role in cardiovascular homeostasis by regulating blood pressure and fluid balance. BNP is primarily synthesized in the ventricles of the heart and is released in response to ventricular volume expansion and pressure overload .

BNP was first discovered in the brain of pigs in 1988, which is why it was initially named Brain Natriuretic Peptide . However, subsequent research revealed that BNP is predominantly produced in the heart, particularly in the ventricles .

BNP is synthesized as a pre-prohormone (pre-proBNP), which is then cleaved to form proBNP. ProBNP is further processed to produce the active hormone BNP and an inactive fragment known as NT-proBNP . The active BNP hormone consists of 32 amino acids and is responsible for its biological effects .

BNP has several important physiological functions:

• Natriuresis and Diuresis: BNP promotes the excretion of sodium and water by the kidneys, which helps to reduce blood volume and blood pressure .
• Vasodilation: BNP causes the blood vessels to dilate, which decreases vascular resistance and lowers blood pressure .
• Inhibition of the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS): BNP inhibits the RAAS, which is a hormone system that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance .
• Anti-fibrotic Effects: BNP has been shown to reduce fibrosis in the heart, which can help to prevent the progression of heart failure .

BNP and NT-proBNP levels are commonly measured in clinical practice to diagnose and manage heart failure. Elevated levels of these peptides are indicative of heart failure and can help to assess the severity of the condition . BNP testing is also used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and to predict the prognosis of patients with heart failure .