Kidney function in ANF-transgenic mice: effect of blood volume expansion

Transgenic mice, created from inbred C3HeB/FeJ embryos, were used to overexpress selectively in the liver a fusion gene comprising mouse transthyretin (TTR) regulatory and atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) structural sequences. Animals were anesthetized, and kidney function was studied before and after blood volume expansion. Baseline urine volumes and electrolyte excretions were not significantly different from those of non-transgenic littermates, despite a markedly lower arterial blood pressure in the experimental group. A slightly lower glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in transgenics was not different statistically. Plasma ANF levels measured by radioimmunoassay were approximately 10-fold higher in the transgenic animals, compared with their nontransgenic siblings. After acute blood volume expansion, the diuretic, natriuretic, kaliuretic, and chloruretic responses were markedly enhanced in the transgenic group. Arterial pressure was increased as a result of hypervolemia, although it remained relatively depressed relative to the controls. GFR again was not different. We conclude that transgenic mice overexpressing ANF can maintain normal excretion of salt and water, possibly via ANF-induced reduction of renal perfusion pressure. After acute blood volume expansion, an increase in pressure may allow full renal expression of the chronically elevated ANF levels.