Bradykinin

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Bradykinin is a peptide that causes blood vessels to dilate (enlarge), and therefore causes blood pressure to fall. It is a part of the kallikrein-kinin system, which is a complex system of blood proteins that play a role in inflammation, blood pressure control, coagulation, and pain.

Structure and Function[edit | edit source]

Bradykinin is a nonapeptide, meaning it is composed of nine amino acids. The sequence of these amino acids is Arg-Pro-Pro-Gly-Phe-Ser-Pro-Phe-Arg. Bradykinin is produced from a precursor protein called kininogen through the action of the enzyme kallikrein.

Physiological Role[edit | edit source]

Bradykinin is involved in several physiological processes:

  • **Vasodilation**: It causes the dilation of blood vessels, which leads to a decrease in blood pressure.
  • **Pain**: Bradykinin is known to induce pain by stimulating sensory neurons.
  • **Inflammation**: It plays a significant role in the inflammatory response by increasing the permeability of blood vessels, allowing immune cells to reach the site of infection or injury.
  • **Smooth Muscle Contraction**: It can cause the contraction of smooth muscle in the bronchi and gastrointestinal tract.

Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]

Bradykinin is implicated in several pathological conditions:

  • **Hereditary Angioedema**: A genetic disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of severe swelling. This condition is often due to a deficiency in C1 inhibitor, which normally regulates the production of bradykinin.
  • **Septic Shock**: Excessive production of bradykinin can contribute to the severe drop in blood pressure seen in septic shock.
  • **Chronic Pain**: Elevated levels of bradykinin are associated with chronic pain conditions.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Bradykinin levels can be influenced by certain medications:

  • **ACE Inhibitors**: These drugs, used to treat high blood pressure, can increase bradykinin levels by inhibiting its breakdown, which can sometimes lead to a side effect known as ACE inhibitor-induced angioedema.
  • **Kininase Inhibitors**: These are experimental drugs that aim to modulate the effects of bradykinin for therapeutic purposes.

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Bradykinin[edit | edit source]

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