Tissue Kallikrein - Kinin System

a considerable base of information on the biochemistry and pharmacology of the kallikrein–kinin system and its involvement in various physiological responses had been obtained by the mid-1970s. The interrelationship of this system with the renin–angiotensin system and its potential involvement in renal homeostasis and salt and water balance were just beginning to be appreciated. With the advent of molecular biology, more specific antagonists and inhibitors, and other powerful new techniques, there has been an explosion of information in this area. To a large degree, however, the precise interactions of the renin–angiotensin and kallikrein–kinin systems remain to be elucidated. These interactions are particularly important in the regulation of water and electrolyte transport and local blood flow in the kidney, as well as blood pressure control in the vasculature. The kallikrein–kinin system is also involved in electrolyte transport across other epithelial surfaces in the intestine, airways, sweat glands, and endometrial lining of the uterus..