ATRIAL-NATRIURETIC-FACTOR - DOES IT HAVE A ROLE IN PSYCHIATRY

Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) is the first of a group of atrial natr iuretic peptides (ANPs) discovered since 1981. This group of peptides is thought to have an important role in sodium homeostasis and regulat ion of fluid volume. Although the role of ANF in cardiovascular and re nal disorders is under investigation, the specific signaling involveme nt that ANF may have in the central nervous system is still unexplored . To date, ANF has not as yet been associated with a given functional area in the brain, nor has it been shown to be linked to any particula r psychopathology. Neuropharmacology research of these peptides and th eir drug manipulation is needed to advance our knowledge of the possib le role of ANF in psychiatry beyond the current level of speculation.