Adrenomedullin

Abstract

Adrenomedullin (ADM) is a recently discovered peptide with potent vasorelaxing and natriuretic properties originally isolated from human pheochromocytoma. Adrenomedullin has been reported to be present in normal adrenal medulla, heart, lung and kidney as well as in plasma and urine. ADM shares some structural homology with calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP). ADM acts on target cells through its unique receptors and CGRP1 receptors. In both cases cyclic AMP seems to be the main second messenger. ADM may function as a circulating hormone and as an autocrine/paracrine mediator involved in the regulation of cardiovascular system and renal function. Plasma concentration of ADM is elevated in patients with congestive heart failure, arterial hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, renal failure and sepsis suggesting its role in pathophysiology of these disorders. Recently another product od adrenomedullin gene, proadrenomedullin N-terminal 20-peptide (PAMP) has been described. This peptide has also vasodilating activity resulting from its inhibitory action on norepinephrine release from sympathetic endings and adrenal medulla.