[Bradykinin receptors: towards new pathophysiological roles].
In addition to being a pro-inflammatory mediator, bradykinin is now recognized as a neuromediator and regulator of several vascular and renal functions. New breakthroughs point to unusual and atypical signalling pathways for a G-protein coupled receptor that could explain the anti-proliferative and anti-fibrogenic effects of bradykinin. The availability of transgenic and knock out animal models for bradykinin receptors or bradykinin-synthesizing or -catabolic enzymes confirms these cardiac and renal protective roles for this peptide system. Bradykinin receptors are involved in the therapeutic action of angiotensin-1 converting enzyme inhibitors that are used in the treatment of arterial hypertension, heart failure and diabetes. Nevertheless, recent evidence highlights dissimilar mechanisms in the regulation and function of these receptors between the central nervous system and peripheral tissues. Therefore, the development of more specific bradykinin receptor agonists or antagonists devoid of central actions seems to evolve as a new therapeutic approach.
Bascands
Jean-Loup
JL
Inserm U.388, Institut Louis Bugnard, CHU Rangueil, avenue Jean-Poulhas, 31403 Toulouse Cedex 4, France.
Schanstra
Joost P
JP
Couture
Réjean
R
Girolami
Jean-Pierre
JP
D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000494:pharmacology; D000818:Animals; D030801:Animals, Genetically Modified; D065168:Bradykinin Receptor Antagonists; D002320:Cardiovascular Physiological Phenomena; D003920:Diabetes Mellitus / Q000188:drug therapy; D019204:GTP-Binding Proteins / Q000494:pharmacology; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000188:drug therapy; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000188:drug therapy; D007668:Kidney / Q000502:physiology; D051379:Mice; D018345:Mice, Knockout; D018002:Receptors, Bradykinin / Q000819:agonists / Q000502:physiology*; D015398:Signal Transduction
D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors; D065168:Bradykinin Receptor Antagonists; D018002:Receptors, Bradykinin; D019204:GTP-Binding Proteins