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Médecine thérapeutique Cardiologie

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Natriuretic peptides: physiopathological aspects Volume 1, issue 3, juillet-septembre 2003

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Groupe hospitalier Bichat – Claude-Bernard, 46 rue Henri-Huchard, 75018 Paris

A- and B-type natriuretic peptides are secreted through different mechanisms but exhibit similar effects. They are mainly and respectively released by atrial and ventricular myocytes after cardiac overload. Their vasodilator and diuretic effects allow correcting cardiac filling pressures. When heart failure worsens, these beneficial effects are insufficient. Recent studies demonstrated some remodelling effects, mainly antifibrotic effects, which are partly related to angiotensin receptors. C-type natriuretic peptide is synthesized by endothelial cells, induces vasorelaxation and inhibits proliferation of smooth muscular cells.