KALLIKREIN Meaning and
Definition
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Kallikrein is a collective term used to describe a group of protein enzymes that play an important role in various physiological processes within the human body. These enzymes are involved in the proteolysis of specific peptide bonds, leading to the cleavage of proteins into smaller fragments or peptides.
Kallikreins are mainly found in bodily fluids such as urine, saliva, and blood plasma. They are known to have diverse functions, including regulation of blood pressure, inflammation, and blood clotting. One of the well-studied kallikreins is tissue kallikrein, which is primarily produced in the salivary glands and kidneys. It promotes vasodilation and regulates sodium excretion, thereby contributing to blood pressure control.
Another important kallikrein is plasma kallikrein, which is involved in the kinin-kallikrein system. This system is responsible for the production and degradation of bradykinin, a potent vasodilator and mediator of inflammation. Plasma kallikrein also plays a role in blood clotting by activating factors such as factor XII (Hageman factor).
Dysregulation of kallikrein activity has been associated with various pathological conditions, including hypertension, edema, and certain cancers. Consequently, kallikreins and their inhibitors are being investigated as potential therapeutic targets for these diseases.
In summary, kallikrein refers to a group of protein enzymes that hydrolyze peptide bonds, found in bodily fluids and involved in diverse physiological processes such as blood pressure regulation, inflammation, and blood clotting.
Common Misspellings for KALLIKREIN
- jallikrein
- mallikrein
- lallikrein
- oallikrein
- iallikrein
- kzllikrein
- ksllikrein
- kwllikrein
- kqllikrein
- kaklikrein
- kaplikrein
- kaolikrein
- kalkikrein
- kalpikrein
- kaloikrein
- kallukrein
- kalljkrein
- kallkkrein
- kallokrein
- kall9krein
Etymology of KALLIKREIN
The word "Kallikrein" is derived from two Greek words: "kallos" meaning beautiful and "kreas" meaning flesh or meat. Together, they form "kallikreas" which translates to "beautiful flesh". The term was originally used to describe a group of enzymes found in the pancreas and kidneys that were believed to play a role in the digestion or breakdown of proteins. Over time, it was specifically assigned to a particular group of proteases that are involved in various physiological processes, including blood pressure regulation and inflammation.
