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Cloning and sequence analysis of cDNA encoding a precursor for human atrial natriuretic polypeptide
Nature
|June 21, 1984
Summary
Researchers identified a precursor peptide, gamma-human atrial natriuretic polypeptide (gamma-hANP), in human atrial tissue. This precursor may be processed to yield alpha-human atrial natriuretic polypeptide (alpha-hANP), involved in fluid and electrolyte balance.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Physiology
Background:
- Natriuretic-diuretic peptides from atrial tissue regulate fluid volume and electrolyte balance.
- Multiple peptide forms suggest a common precursor.
- The structure of alpha-human atrial natriuretic polypeptide (alpha-hANP) was known.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the structure of the precursor for alpha-hANP.
- To identify the gene encoding the alpha-hANP precursor.
Main Methods:
- Cloning of complementary DNA (cDNA) from human atrial messenger RNA (mRNA).
- Sequence analysis of the cloned cDNA.
Main Results:
- The cDNA encodes gamma-human atrial natriuretic polypeptide (gamma-hANP), a 13,000 MW precursor.
- The C-terminal 28 residues of gamma-hANP correspond to alpha-hANP.
Conclusions:
- Identified the precursor protein for alpha-hANP.
- Established the molecular basis for natriuretic peptide production in the human atria.