Effects of a synthetic human atrial natriuretic polypeptide on regional blood flow in rats

The effects of alpha-hANP on systemic hemodynamics and regional blood flow were examined in conscious WKY and SHR. An intravenous infusion of alpha-hANP (3 micrograms/kg per min) resulted in a rapid and marked fall of blood pressure and of total peripheral resistance but with no change in cardiac output in both strains. alpha-hANP decreased vascular resistance in most organs and there was a redistribution of renal blood flow. Thus, the acute hypotensive effect of alpha-hANP is probably related to a vasodilator action.