SUMMARY OF A SYMPOSIUM ON NATRIURETIC AND DIGITALIS-LIKE FACTORS

An international symposium on natriuretic and digitalis-like factors w as convened for the first time since 1992. Topics discussed included s tructures and biosynthesis of endogenous digitalis-like factors (EDLF) , biologic activities, physiology function and role of EDLF in hyperte nsion, and novel natriuretic factors. Progress was reported in determi ning the exact structure of an isomer of ouabain isolated from bovine hypothalamus. Evidence was presented supporting the existence of a sec ond mammalian EDLF that resembles steroids found in toads (bufodienoli des). Support for endogenous synthesis of mammalian EDLF was also pres ented. Mammalian EDLF were reported to have effects which are differen t from those possessed by digitalis like steroids derived from plants. New evidence was presented implicating EDLF in various forms of hyper tension in humans and animal models. Finally, several unique natriuret ic factors that do not inhibit Na, K ATPase and that appear to play a role in mammalian volume regulation were discussed.