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Atrial natriuretic factor is detectable in human cerebrospinal fluid
1Department of Medicine, Long Beach Veterans Hospital, California 90822.
Summary
Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) is detectable in human cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with neurological disorders. CSF ANF levels often exceed plasma ANF concentrations, suggesting brain production or concentration.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Endocrinology
- Cardiovascular Physiology
Background:
- Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) is a hormone primarily known for its role in cardiovascular regulation.
- Its presence and function within the central nervous system, particularly in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), are less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the detectability and characteristics of ANF in human CSF.
- To compare CSF ANF levels with simultaneous plasma ANF concentrations.
Main Methods:
- Measurement of immunoreactive ANF in CSF samples from patients undergoing myelography using radioimmunoassay (RIA).
- Characterization of ANF in CSF and plasma using reverse-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) followed by RIA.
- Simultaneous measurement of plasma ANF levels.
Main Results:
- Immunoreactive ANF was detected in human CSF, with levels ranging from undetectable to 36 pmol/L.
- RP-HPLC and RIA confirmed the presence of ANF in CSF, predominantly as human ANF-(99-126).
- CSF ANF concentrations were generally higher than plasma ANF levels in the same individuals, with similar elution profiles.
Conclusions:
- ANF is present in substantial amounts in the CSF of some individuals with neurological disorders.
- CSF ANF levels exceeding plasma levels suggest potential local production within the brain or concentration within the CSF.
- These findings indicate a potential role for ANF within the central nervous system.