mRNA quantification of C-type natriuretic peptide in brain areas of rodents

C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) is regarded as an endothelium-derived vaso dilator and might therefore have an important role in controlling vascular tone and remodeling. Because CNP also is expressed in the brain, it is cons idered to be a neurotransmitter. The present study compares expression leve ls of CNP mRNA in distinct areas of the mouse brain with the expression pat tern in the rat brain. A distinct expression of CNP was found in all invest igated areas with the exception of the mouse striatum. In both rodents, hig h CNP expression was detected in the tegmentum. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science I nc. All rights reserved.