Accumulating evidence suggests that the natriuretic peptide (NP) hormonal system has
important effects on metabolism. However, more information is needed to better understand the
effects of NPs on metabolism in humans. Therefore, the investigators propose a study to
determine the effects of b-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) on energy and fat metabolism in
humans. The investigators' primary hypothesis is that the administration of BNP will increase
energy expenditure in humans. The investigators' secondary hypothesis is that BNP
administration will promote changes in gene expression in fat tissue suggestive of fat
"beiging" in humans. Interventions that safely increase energy expenditure and promote fat
"beiging" represent potential strategies for treating metabolic dysfunction due to obesity.