Lab results for a patient diagnosed with left heart failure would likely include an abnormally increased B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP). The pathology of a high BNP with left heart failure is best explained by the fact that BNP

is secreted by the kidneys in response to abnormally high preload.

is secreted by the heart in response to abnormally high preload.

levels in the blood go up as a direct result of injured myocardial cells.

will bind with beta receptors and directly increase left ventricular contractility.