Snake venom natriuretic peptide that exhibits hypotensive and vasorelaxant effects. Produces a dose-dependent hypotension in rats, followed by significant increases in concentrations of markers of nitric oxide (NO) formation measured in the plasma and vasorelaxation in a thoracic aortic ring bath. The peptide may exert its hypotensive action, at least in part, through stimulation of NO production. The vasorelaxant effect is endothelium-dependent and does not appear to be mediated by the natriuretic peptide receptor-A, as its action is not modified by isatin (a potent NPR1 antagonist). May act by activating the natriuretic peptide receptor-B (NPR2). Expressed by the venom gland. Average mass. The hypotensive effect is not mediated by the natriuretic peptide receptor-A (NPR1). Belongs to the natriuretic peptide family. Snake NP subfamily.