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Updated: Apr 16, 2026

Evaluation of Vascular Control Mechanisms Utilizing Video Microscopy of Isolated Resistance Arteries of Rats
Published on: December 5, 2017
Urocortin 2 in cardiovascular health and disease
Rui Adão1, Diana Santos-Ribeiro1, Miriam T Rademaker2
1Department of Physiology and Cardiothoracic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Professor Hernâni Monteiro, Porto 4200-319, Portugal.
Abstract:
Urocortin (Ucn)-2 - corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor 2 signaling has favorable effects in the cardiovascular system, including coronary vasodilatation, with increased coronary blood flow and conductance and augmented cardiac contractility and output, as well as protection against ischemia/reperfusion injury. Indeed, several animal studies have confirmed the salutary therapeutic effects of Ucn-2 in chronic heart failure, with improvements in cardiac performance and animal survival. In addition, recent clinical trials have demonstrated the benefits of Ucn-2 in patients with stable chronic heart failure on optimal medical therapy.
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