kinin system
Last reviewed 01/2018
The kinins are biologically-active polypeptides. They are formed by kallikrein-catalyzed cleavage of plasma kininogens, part of the alpha-2-globulin protein fraction.
Examples of kinins include bradykinin and kallidin. They may have a role in inflammation and exocrine gland secretion. Kinins cause vasodilation of most vessels but vasoconstriction of the pulmonary bed, and they also alter vascular permeability.