Widespread co-localization of mRNAs encoding the guanylate cyclase-coupled natriuretic peptide receptors in rat tissues.

Natriuretic peptides modulate vasorelaxation, diuresis, and natriuresis through the stimulation of cGMP production by the guanylate cyclase-coupled natriuretic peptide receptors, GC-A and GC-B. We used reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction to determine the distribution of mRNA encoding both receptors in rat tissues. GC-A and GC-B transcripts were detected in all peripheral and neural tissues examined. Since the atrial natriuretic peptide gene is expressed in all these tissues, our widespread detection of GC-A and GC-B mRNAs now suggests that natriuretic peptides may act as endocrine and paracrine hormones as well as neurotransmitters via both GC-A and GC-B receptors.