Endothelin
Endothelin — A family of 21-amino acid peptides produced by endothelial cells that are among the most potent vasoconstrictors known, studied in cardiovascular research.
What Is Endothelin?
Endothelins (ET-1, ET-2, ET-3) are 21-amino acid vasoconstrictor peptides produced by endothelial cells. ET-1 is the most potent endogenous vasoconstrictor known and acts through ETA and ETB receptors. Endothelin receptor antagonists (bosentan, ambrisentan) are FDA-approved for pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Significance
- Structure: 21 residues with 2 disulfide bonds (Cys1-Cys15, Cys3-Cys11)
- Processing: Big ET-1 (38 AA) cleaved by endothelin-converting enzyme (ECE) to active ET-1
- Drug targets: ETA-selective (ambrisentan) and dual ETA/ETB (bosentan, macitentan) antagonists in clinical use
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Endothelin?
A family of 21-amino acid peptides produced by endothelial cells that are among the most potent vasoconstrictors known, studied in cardiovascular research.
Why is Endothelin important in peptide research?
Endothelin is a fundamental concept in compound as it relates to peptide science. It directly influences experimental design, compound characterization, and the reliability of research outcomes across biochemistry and molecular biology disciplines.