Natriuretic peptides, obesity and cardiovascular diseases

Abstract

Obesity, hypertension and heart failure are conditions commonly associated with each other. Recent investigations have demonstrated that low plasmatic levels of natriuretic peptides are linked with obesity. Thus, knowing the actions of these hormones in water and salt homeostasis, it is possible to establish that low levels of natriuretic peptides may be the common denominator among obesity, hypertension and heart failure. Knowledge on this topic is crucial to develop further investigation for definitive conclusions.