A peptide originally found in fish could help fight cardiovascular disease, new research has claimed.
A review by the International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology (IUPHAR) in Switzerland has pulled together the vast literature on Urotensin II (UII), a peptide first isolated from teleost fish.
UII activates a G protein-coupled receptor called UT to modulate a number of signalling pathways including intracellular Calcium, researchers said.
Interestingly, the peptide can constrict some blood vessels yet dilate others, they said.
The review by researchers, including Professor David Lambert from the University of Leicester's Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, has shown that UII can modulate a vast array of biological activities encompassing the cardiovascular system, kidneys and central nervous system.
"We have been working on this exciting peptide for a number of years; it exhibits a very interesting pharmacological profile.
"Design and evaluation of small molecule drugs has potential for use in the treatment of several cardiovascular diseases," Lambert said.
The research was published in the journal Pharmacological Reviews.
