H. Margolius
1984
Citations
2
Influential Citations
62
Citations
Journal
Annual review of physiology
Abstract
Kallikrein (E.C. 3.4.21.8) was first found in mammalian urine more than 70 years ago (I). This urinary enzyme is now known to be synthesized in the kidney, to have biochemical actions and structural features similar to several other mammalian proteinases, and to be regulated by hormones that control important aspects of renal function. The kinin products (kallidin, also known as lysyl-bradykinin, and bradykinin) of this tissue kallikrein's action upon kinin ogen substrates are extremely potent stimuli to renal biochemical and phys iological events. These facts have provoked substantial recent interest in the renal kallikrein-kinin system. This interest is augmented by evidence of system abnormality in renal pathological states and system sensitivity to drugs affect ing renal function. Although the functional responsibilities of the renal kalli krein-kinin system are unclear and controversial, there seems no doubt the system has an important role in renal physiology. In this section, the recent findings that support this conclusion are presented. Additional details can be found in recent encyclopedic reviews (16, 89, 94).