Atrial naturiuretic factor: Structure and functional properties

Abstract

The present non-inclusive short review is intended as critical appraisal of the pertinent literature on the chemical and functional properties of ANF with special emphasis on the latter. Some of the open questions and future perspectives will also be considered. An opening cautionary note is pertinent. Until there is direct and unequivocal evidence that ANF circulates in blood and that its plasma concentration changes with appropriate stimuli, ANF should not as yet be referred to as a 'natriuretic hormone'.