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Published on: July 25, 2019
Apelin and its receptor APJ in cardiovascular diseases
Xiao-Hua Yu1, Zhi-Bin Tang2, Li-Jing Liu3
1Life Science Research Center, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China.
Insights
The apelin/APJ system, a key regulator of cardiovascular homeostasis, offers therapeutic potential for heart diseases. Targeting this system shows promise in protecting against various cardiovascular conditions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Biology
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Apelin is an adipokine and the endogenous ligand for the APJ receptor.
- The apelin/APJ system is widely expressed, particularly in the heart and vasculature.
- This system plays a crucial role in cardiovascular homeostasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of the apelin/APJ system in cardiovascular diseases.
- To explore the therapeutic potential of targeting the apelin/APJ axis.
- To summarize recent data on apelin/APJ in major cardiovascular conditions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on the apelin/APJ system.
- Analysis of data concerning the cardiovascular actions of apelin and APJ.
- Synthesis of information on therapeutic strategies targeting the apelin/APJ axis.
Main Results:
- Apelin exhibits positive inotropic effects and promotes nitric oxide-dependent vasodilation.
- The apelin/APJ system is implicated in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases.
- Targeting the apelin/APJ axis demonstrates protective effects against cardiovascular diseases.
Conclusions:
- The apelin/APJ system is a critical mediator of cardiovascular health.
- Understanding its cardiovascular actions can lead to novel therapeutic interventions.
- Targeting the apelin/APJ axis holds significant therapeutic potential for cardiovascular diseases.
Abstract:
Apelin is an adipokine that has been identified as an endogenous ligand for the orphan receptor APJ. Apelin and APJ are expressed in a diverse range of tissues with particular preponderance for the heart and vasculature. Apelin has powerful positive inotropic actions and causes endothelium- and nitric oxide-dependent vasodilatation. Growing evidence shows that apelin/APJ system functions as a critical mediator of cardiovascular homeostasis and is involved in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases. Targeting apelin/APJ axis produces protection against cardiovascular diseases. In the current review we have summarized recent data concerning the role and therapeutic potential of apelin/APJ in several major cardiovascular diseases. An increased understanding of the cardiovascular actions of apelin/APJ system will help to develop novel therapeutic interventions for cardiovascular diseases.
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