Natriuretic peptides in the central nervous system: Novel targets for cognitive impairment

Simin Mahinrad, Anton J.M. de Craen, Sevil Yasar, Diana van Heemst, Behnam Sabayan*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

21 Scopus citations

Abstract

Natriuretic peptides (NPs) are traditionally known as cardiac hormones with diuretic, natriuretic and blood pressure lowering properties. Evidence indicates that NPs and their receptors are abundant in the central nervous system, suggesting their involvement in regulation of various brain functions. It has been shown that NPs are involved in the regulation of neurovascular and blood-brain barrier integrity, neuro-inflammation, neuroprotection, synaptic transmission and brain fluid homeostasis. In addition, NPs might contribute to the brain's inhibitory control over the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Studies have also shown that high systemic levels of NPs are associated with cognitive impairment independent of cardiovascular risk factors. In this review we discuss the potential roles of NPs in regulating structural and functional integrity of the brain. Based on the available neurobiological and clinical evidence, we propose that NPs might represent as potential novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets for cognitive impairment.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)148-156
Number of pages9
JournalNeuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews
Volume68
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 1 2016
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Central nervous system
  • Cognitive impairment
  • Natriuretic peptides

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Neuropsychology and Physiological Psychology
  • Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Behavioral Neuroscience

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