Expression data from normal atria and ventricles

Pharmacological and gene ablation studies have demonstrated a crucial role of the cardiac natriuretic peptides (NP) hormones ANF and BNP in the maintenance of cardiovascular homeostasis. In addition, hypertension and chronic congestive heart failure are clinical entities that may be regarded as states of relative NP deficiency. Hence the study of the function of the endocrine heart is highly relevant.

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McGrath MF, de Bold AJ