Bradykinin And Its Related Peptides

Abstract

Bradykinin and its related peptides are generated by the action of kallikrein enzymes on kininogen substrates. Kinins are potent vasodilators, promote natriuresis and diuresis, and have beneficial cardiovascular effects; however, kinins may also promote inflammation. Peptidases are important determinants of kinin levels, and increased kinin levels may contribute to both the beneficial and adverse effects of peptidase inhibitor therapy. Tissue kallikrein and plasma kallikrein are both serine proteases. Plasma kallikrein is initially secreted as the inactive pre kallikrein, and tissue kallikrein is initially secreted as inactive prokallikrein. Both plasma prekallikrein and tissue prokallikrein..