BETA KALLIKREIN Meaning and
Definition
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Beta kallikrein is an enzyme that belongs to the kallikrein family and is involved in various physiological processes within the human body. It is a serine protease, meaning it catalyzes the cleavage of peptide bonds using a serine residue within its active site.
Beta kallikrein is predominantly synthesized and secreted by the kidneys, but it can also be found in other tissues and organs, such as the salivary glands. It acts as a key component of both the intrinsic and kinin-kallikrein pathways, which are essential for the regulation of blood pressure, inflammatory response, and fibrinolysis.
In the intrinsic pathway, beta kallikrein cleaves high-molecular-weight kininogen (HMWK) to form bradykinin, a potent peptide involved in vasodilation, pain sensation, and smooth muscle contraction. It also triggers the release of additional mediators involved in inflammation and immune responses.
In the kinin-kallikrein pathway, beta kallikrein activates plasminogen, the precursor of plasmin, which is responsible for breaking down blood clots and promoting the degradation of extracellular matrix components.
Overall, beta kallikrein plays a vital role in maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis, blood pressure regulation, inflammation, and wound healing. Dysregulation or abnormal levels of beta kallikrein have been associated with various pathological conditions, including hypertension, edema, hereditary angioedema, and other inflammatory disorders.
Common Misspellings for BETA KALLIKREIN
- veta kallikrein
- neta kallikrein
- heta kallikrein
- geta kallikrein
- bwta kallikrein
- bsta kallikrein
- bdta kallikrein
- brta kallikrein
- b4ta kallikrein
- b3ta kallikrein
- bera kallikrein
- befa kallikrein
- bega kallikrein
- beya kallikrein
- be6a kallikrein
- be5a kallikrein
- betz kallikrein
- bets kallikrein
- betw kallikrein
- betq kallikrein
Etymology of BETA KALLIKREIN
The word "beta Kallikrein" has its etymology rooted in the field of biochemistry and derives from two main components:
1. Beta: The term "beta" originates from the Greek letter "β" (beta). In biochemistry, beta is used to denote the second of two or more closely related substances. It signifies a particular variant or isoform of a macromolecule. In this context, "beta" refers to a specific form or variant of the kallikrein protein.
2. Kallikrein: The term "kallikrein" comes from the Greek words "kalli" meaning beautiful, and "kreas" meaning flesh. Kallikreins are a group of enzymes that play various roles in the body, including the breakdown of proteins. They are often found in tissues related to the gastrointestinal and renal systems.
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