Relaxin: review of biology and potential role in treating heart failure.
Relaxin is a naturally occurring human peptide initially identified as a reproductive hormone. More recently, relaxin has been shown to play a key role in the maternal hemodynamic and renal adjustments that accommodate pregnancy. An understanding of these physiologic effects has led to the evaluation of relaxin as a pharmacologic agent for the treatment of patients with acute heart failure. Preliminary results have been encouraging. In addition, the other known biologic properties of relaxin, including anti-inflammatory effects, extracellular matrix remodeling effects, and angiogenic and anti-ischemic effects, all may play a role in potential benefits of relaxin therapy. Ongoing, large-scale clinical testing will provide additional insights into the potential role of relaxin in the treatment of heart failure.
Teichman
Sam L
SL
Corthera, Inc, a subsidiary of Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp., San Mateo, CA 94402, USA. steichman@corthera.com
Unemori
Elaine
E
Teerlink
John R
JR
Cotter
Gad
G
Metra
Marco
M
D005260:Female; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006439:Hemodynamics / Q000187:drug effects*; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D012065:Relaxin / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D014664:Vasodilation / Q000187:drug effects*
D012065:Relaxin