ALPHA KALLIKREIN Meaning and
Definition
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Alpha kallikrein is a term used in biochemistry and medical sciences to refer to a specific enzyme known as tissue kallikrein-1, denoted by the symbol KLK1. It is a member of the kallikrein family of enzymes and is found in various tissues and fluids in the body, including the kidney, salivary glands, pancreas, and seminal fluid.
Alpha kallikrein plays a crucial role in several physiological processes, particularly those involving the regulation of blood pressure and fluid balance. It achieves this by cleaving certain inactive precursor molecules called kininogens, leading to the production of active peptides known as kinins, most notably bradykinin. Bradykinin acts as a potent vasodilator, causing blood vessels to expand, resulting in the lowering of blood pressure.
The activity of alpha kallikrein is tightly regulated by other proteins and factors in the body. Dysfunction or abnormal levels of KLK1 have been associated with various medical conditions, including hypertension, kidney diseases, and other cardiovascular disorders.
Research into alpha kallikrein is ongoing, as its potential therapeutic applications continue to be explored. Inhibitors or activators of this enzyme may hold promise for the treatment of hypertension, kidney disorders, and other related conditions. Understanding the precise biochemical mechanisms and functions of alpha kallikrein is essential for advancing our knowledge of these diseases and developing effective interventions.
Common Misspellings for ALPHA KALLIKREIN
- zlpha kallikrein
- slpha kallikrein
- wlpha kallikrein
- qlpha kallikrein
- akpha kallikrein
- appha kallikrein
- aopha kallikrein
- aloha kallikrein
- allha kallikrein
- al-ha kallikrein
- al0ha kallikrein
- alpga kallikrein
- alpba kallikrein
- alpna kallikrein
- alpja kallikrein
- alpua kallikrein
- alpya kallikrein
- alphz kallikrein
- alphs kallikrein
- alphw kallikrein
Etymology of ALPHA KALLIKREIN
The word "alpha Kallikrein" is a combination of two terms: "alpha" and "Kallikrein".
1. Alpha: The term "alpha" comes from the Greek alphabet, specifically the first letter, α (pronounced "alpha"). In general usage, it has come to represent the first or the beginning of something. In scientific contexts, including biology and chemistry, "alpha" is often used to designate the first in a series or the initial form.
2. Kallikrein: The term "Kallikrein" is derived from the Greek words "kalli" meaning beautiful or fine and "kreas" meaning flesh. It was originally coined in 1902 by Emil Abderhalden, a Swiss physician and biochemist, to describe a substance found in the pancreas that caused smooth muscle contractions.
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