Natriuretic peptide

In physiology, natriuretic peptides are "Peptides that regulate the water-electrolyte balance in the body, also known as natriuretic peptide hormones. Several have been sequenced (atrial natriuretic factor; brain natriuretic peptide; c-type natriuretic peptide)." In addition, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is an inactive peptide that is co-secreted with brain natriuretic peptide.

Brain natriuretic peptide and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide are used as diagnostic tests to detect heart failure. Both have a sensitivity over 90% but have a specificity of less than 70%.