A. Adam et al., Kinins: Their nature and their potential role in the cardiovascular effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors., NEPHROLOGIE, 21(4), 2000, pp. 163-172
The purpose of the present review dedicated to the kallikrein-kininogen-kin
in system is to highlight the pathophysiological role of this complex syste
m in kidney diseased patients. We will focus mainly on the nature of bradyk
inin and its active metabolite, des-Arg(9)-bradykinin. After the descriptio
n of their properties, their metabolism and their receptors, we will show t
he recent evidence about the renal kallikrein-kinine system and its autocri
n/paracrin role. This will allow to the nephrologist a better understanding
of the role of these vasoactive peptides not only in the beneficial aspect
s, but also in the acute side-effects, of angiotensin-converting enzyme inh
ibitors.