T-kininogen, processing and functions

Studies are presented which indicate that T-kininogen, the acute phase kininogen of the rat, could be a healing protein because of its properties as a cysteine protease inhibitor. Evidence is also presented that mRNA of T-kininogen synthesis may be a function of interleukin 6 production. A regulatory mechanism is postulated by which SH cofactors could determine if T-kinin is released or whether the T-kininogen molecule would remain intact. Evidence is also presented that T-kinin acts through kinin B2 receptors. No specific binding of bradykinin or T-kinin could be detected in rat heart preparations.