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Cardiovascular activities of the bradykinin system

Jagdish N Sharma1

  • 1Department of Applied Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Center,Kuwait University, P.O. Box 24923, Safat 13110, Kuwait. j.n.sharma@hsc.edu.kw

Thescientificworldjournal
|May 6, 2008
PubMed

Insights

The kallikrein-kinin system is vital for heart health. Its deficiency contributes to cardiovascular diseases, but enhancing this system shows therapeutic promise for conditions like hypertension.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Physiology
  • Kallikrein-Kinin System Biology

Background:

  • The kallikrein-kinin system (KKS) is present in cardiac muscle, and its dysfunction is linked to cardiac issues.
  • Reduced KKS activity is implicated in cardiovascular diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and myocardial infarction.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the role of the KKS in cardiovascular health and disease.
  • To evaluate the therapeutic potential of modulating the KKS for cardiovascular and renal disorders.

Main Methods:

  • Review of clinical and experimental data on KKS activity in various cardiovascular conditions.
  • Analysis of the mechanisms underlying the cardioprotective effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors.
  • Assessment of kallikrein gene delivery and kinin agonists as therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

  • Deficiency in the KKS can lead to cardiac dysfunction and contribute to cardiovascular diseases.
  • Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors exert cardioprotective effects partly through kinin release, aiding left ventricular hypertrophy regression.
  • Kallikrein gene therapy and kinin agonists show potential for treating hypertension and cardiovascular/renal diseases.

Conclusions:

  • The kallikrein-kinin system plays a crucial role in maintaining cardiac function.
  • Modulating the KKS offers a promising therapeutic avenue for cardiovascular and renal diseases.
  • While beneficial, potential adverse effects of KKS-targeting therapies require consideration.

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