Vascular effects and electrolyte homeostasis of the natriuretic peptide isolated from Crotalus oreganus abyssus (North American Grand Canyon rattlesnake) venom

► We have isolated and characterized from the venom of the Crotalus oreganus abyssus new natriuretic peptides (NPs). ► The NP family comprises three members, ANP (atrial natriuretic peptide), BNP (b-type natriuretic peptide) and CNP (c-type natriuretic peptide), and has an important role in blood pressure regulation and electrolyte homeostasis. ► The novel NP is Coa_NP2 and presents an average molecular mass of 3419.88 Da and its amino acid sequence presents the loop region that is characteristic of natriuretic peptides. ► We demonstrate, herein, that Coa_NP2 produces a dose-dependent decrease in mean arterial pressure in rats, followed by significant increases in concentrations nitric oxide markers formation.