Bradykinin
Bradykinin
Bradykinin (pronounced: bray-dee-KYE-nin) is a peptide that causes blood vessels to dilate (enlarge), and therefore causes blood pressure to lower.
Etymology
The term "bradykinin" is derived from the Greek words "bradys," meaning slow, and "kinein," meaning to move. This is in reference to its function in slowing down the movement of fluid in the body by dilating blood vessels.
Function
Bradykinin is a part of the kinin-kallikrein system, which is involved in regulating blood pressure, inflammation, and pain sensation. It is produced in the body tissues and is inactivated in the lungs. Bradykinin works by binding to its receptor on the cells of the blood vessels, causing them to dilate. This dilation allows for increased blood flow and decreased blood pressure.
Related Terms
- Kinin-kallikrein system: A system in the body that produces kinins, including bradykinin, to regulate blood pressure, inflammation, and pain sensation.
- Peptide: A short chain of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. Bradykinin is a type of peptide.
- Receptor: A protein on the surface of a cell that binds to a specific molecule, triggering a response in the cell. Bradykinin binds to receptors on blood vessels to cause dilation.
- Inflammation: A response by the body's immune system to injury or infection, often causing redness, swelling, pain, and heat. Bradykinin is involved in regulating inflammation.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Bradykinin
- Wikipedia's article - Bradykinin
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