Abstract
AbstractThe chemical and physiological properties of various kallikrein-like (kinin-releasing) enzymes from Viperidae and Crotalidae snake venoms have been compared. These enzymes act on plasma kininogen to release the potent vasodepressors bradykinin and/or kallidin. Moreover, they hydrolyze the vasopressor angiotensin II and its precursor angiotensin I. Although fibrinogen clotting ability is absent from kallikrein-like enzymes, most of these enzymes degrade the peptide chains of fibrinogen. Considerable sequence homology occurs between kallikrein-like enzymes and thrombin-like enzymes, however physiological substrate specificities of the two enzymes differ. Similarities and differences in the structure and function of these enzymes is discussed.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
