Natriuretic hormone: the ultimate determinant of the preservation of external sodium balance.

The present manuscript focuses on a putative natriuretic hormone. It includes the history of a long-term search for the pure molecule, ranging from partial purification to synthesis. It includes a description of seven different bioassay systems used, a resume of the sequential steps in purification, and a summary of a series of experimental protocols employed in the effort to define the biologic properties of the inhibitor of sodium (Na) transport.

Identification of xanthurenic acid 8-O-beta-D-glucoside and xanthurenic acid 8-O-sulfate as human natriuretic hormones.

Hormonal regulation of salt excretion and water balance by the kidneys is well documented. Before 1961, it was widely believed that the glomerular filtration rate and the steroid hormone aldosterone controlled sodium balance in the body. In 1961, deWardener et al.