Gene Expression of A‐ and B‐Type Natriuretic Peptides in Response to Acute Ethanol Ingestion

Given that ethanol ingestion is associated with a disruption of water and electrolyte balance in addition to being a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, we have investigated the gene expression of ANP and BNP in response to acute doses of ethanol. Wistar rats were administered either a 5 g/kg dose of ethanol or an equivalent volume of water, and atrial and ventricular tissue samples were removed at 30,60, and 120 min for analyses. Although no differences in ANP mRNA were observed between ethanol and water‐treated rats during the time course, BNP mRNA levels in ethanoltreated rats were 43% of those present in water‐treated animals in atrial tissue at 120 min. In ventricular tissue, BNP mRNA levels were reduced similarly to 38% of control. These results suggest a possible differential regulation of A‐ and B‐type natriuretic peptides under the influence of ethanol ingestion.