Are vasodilatory effects of C-type natriuretic peptide on forearm resistance vessels distinct from those of atrial natriuretic peptide in chronic heart failure?
In patients with CHF the peripheral vasodilatory effect of ANP is attenuated, but CNP-induced peripheral vasorelaxation is preserved, with CNP being less potent for equimolar doses.
These results highlight major pathogenic pathways in DLE and provide novel molecular targets for the development of new therapies. The data suggest the existence of a TGF-β-dependent pathway inducing fibrosis in DLE.