Description
This gene encodes members of the natriuretic family of peptides that play an important role in the control of extracellular fluid volume and electrolyte homeostasis. The encoded protein precursor undergoes proteolytic processing to generate multiple functional peptides. Mice lacking the encoded peptides exhibit salt-sensitive hypertension. The transgenic overexpression of the encoded peptides in mice decreases arterial blood pressure without inducing diuresis and natriuresis. This gene is located adjacent to another member of the natriuretic family of peptides on chromosome 4.