[The formation, elimination and physiologic effects of atrial natriuretic factor]

The authors review briefly contemporary findings on the atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), a peptide discovered almost ten years ago. The authors discuss some physiological and pathophysiological aspects of the action of ANF. This peptide is synthetized not only in both atria but also in some other tissues such as the ventricles, lungs and central and peripheral nervous system. Due to its comprehensive action, comprising cardiovascular, renal, neuronal and adrenal action, this peptide can play a part not only in the regulation of the intravascular volume, sodium and pressure homeostasis but it can act also as a neuromodulator/neurotransmitter and play a part in the regulation of sympathetic nervous activity. For a more exact evaluation of the importance of the comprehensive action of ANF, however, some further problems will have to be elucidated in particular those pertaining to the development of a specific ANF antagonist.