BRADYKININ Meaning and
Definition
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Bradykinin is a noun that refers to a small peptide molecule belonging to the family of kinin proteins. It is produced in the body as a result of the activation of an enzyme called kininogen. Bradykinin plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, particularly in inflammation and pain.
The primary function of bradykinin is to cause the dilation of blood vessels, resulting in increased blood flow to specific tissues. This process is known as vasodilation. It also acts as a potent activator of pain receptors, contributing to the sensation of pain. In addition, bradykinin is involved in promoting the release of other mediators that enhance inflammation, such as histamine and prostaglandins.
Increased levels of bradykinin can occur due to various factors, such as tissue injury or inflammatory conditions. Excessive bradykinin production can lead to chronic pain and heightened inflammation. Conversely, deficiencies in bradykinin can result in reduced pain sensitivity and increased blood pressure.
Medical researchers have developed drugs that target the bradykinin system to manage certain medical conditions. These drugs are referred to as bradykinin receptor antagonists and are used to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis and migraines. Additionally, some medications that inhibit the enzyme responsible for bradykinin breakdown have been developed to increase the levels of this peptide and promote vasodilation in specific medical scenarios.
Overall, bradykinin serves as a vital signaling molecule in the body, contributing to the regulation of blood flow, pain sensitivity, and inflammation.
Common Misspellings for BRADYKININ
Etymology of BRADYKININ
The word "Bradykinin" is derived from the root "brady-" meaning slow or delayed, and "kinin" which refers to any of a class of physiologically active polypeptides. The term was coined in the early 20th century by two Romanian physiologists, Ernesto Fourneau and Phyllis Oppenheimer. They discovered this substance from an extract of beef blood plasma and named it "bradykinin" to reflect its ability to cause a slow, prolonged contraction of smooth muscles.
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