Bradykinin in the context of Angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitor

⭐ Core Definition: Bradykinin

Bradykinin (BK) (from Greek brady- 'slow' + -kinin, kīn(eîn) 'to move') is a peptide that promotes inflammation. It causes arterioles to dilate (enlarge) via the release of prostacyclin, nitric oxide, and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor, and makes veins constrict via prostaglandin F2, thereby leading to leakage into capillary beds due to the increased pressure in the capillaries. Bradykinin consists of nine amino acids, and is a physiologically and pharmacologically active peptide of the kinin group of proteins.

A class of drugs called angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors) increase bradykinin levels by inhibiting its degradation, thereby increasing its blood pressure-lowering effect. ACE inhibitors are used to treat hypertension and heart failure.

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⭐ Core Definition: Bradykinin
Bradykinin in the context of Angiotensin-converting enzyme
Bradykinin in the context of ACE inhibitors

Bradykinin in the context of Angiotensin-converting enzyme

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (EC 3.4.15.1), or ACE, is a central component of the renin–angiotensin system (RAS), which controls blood pressure by regulating the volume of fluids in the body. It converts the hormone angiotensin I to the active vasoconstrictor angiotensin II. Therefore, ACE indirectly increases blood pressure by causing blood vessels to constrict. ACE inhibitors are widely used as pharmaceutical drugs for treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

Other lesser known functions of ACE are degradation of bradykinin, substance P and amyloid beta-protein.

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Bradykinin in the context of ACE inhibitors

Angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors) are a class of medication used primarily for the treatment of high blood pressure and heart failure. This class of medicine works by causing relaxation of blood vessels as well as a decrease in blood volume, which leads to lower blood pressure and decreased oxygen demand from the heart.

ACE inhibitors inhibit the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme, an important component of the renin–angiotensin system which converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, and hydrolyses bradykinin. Therefore, ACE inhibitors decrease the formation of angiotensin II, a vasoconstrictor, and increase the level of bradykinin, a peptide vasodilator. This combination is synergistic in lowering blood pressure.

View the full Wikipedia page for ACE inhibitors

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