Natriuretic Peptides in Health and Disease

A comprehensive, state-of-the-art review of the biochemistry, molecular and cellular biology, pharmacology, physiology, and pathology of natriuretic peptides. Written by the foremost researchers in the field, the reviews range from describing the actions of these peptides on the kidney, adrenal gland, vasculature, and brain, to their effects on immune regulation, reproduction, and cell growth. Special attention is given to the potential involvement of these hormones in clinical pathology and to their possible therapeutic use. Especially enlightening is the first-time review of molecular understanding of key cellular signaling pathways and of the importance of the vascular smooth muscle-endothelial interface. Willis Samson and Ellis Levin offer in Natriuretic Peptides in Health and Disease a comprehensive collection of state-of-the-art reviews of the biochemistry, molecular and cellular biology, pharmacology, physiology, and pathology of these potent vasoactive factors. Written by the foremost researchers in the field, the reviews range from describing the actions of these peptides on the kidney, adrenal gland, vasculature, and brain, to their effects on immune regulation, reproduction, and cell growth. Special attention is given to the potential involvement of these hormones in clinical pathology and to their possible therapeutic use. There are also surveys of our current molecular understanding of key cellular signaling pathways and of the importance of the vascular smooth muscle-endothelial interface.§Natriuretic Peptides in Health and Disease reflects the rapid growth of research on these critically important biological peptides and points to their promise in future biomedical research and therapeutics. Insightful and comprehensive, the book will constitute the standard reference in the field for years to come.