Apelin Peptides

Apelin reduces blood pressure

Apelin is a neuropeptide involved in the regulation of body fluid homeostasis and cardiovascular functions. It reduces blood pressure via a nitric oxide–dependent, possibly central mechanism, exerting a strong positive inotropic effect.

The two major isoforms are apelin-13 and apelin 36. It is widely distributed in the CNS and periphery, particularly in the heart, kidney, lung and mammary glands. Apelin-like immunoreactivity was detected in the adipocytes, gastric mucosa, endothelia and Kupffer cells in the liver.

Apelin, is the endogenous ligand of the human G protein-coupled orphan APJ receptor. Apelin and APJ are widely expressed in homogenates from animal organs in a pattern shared with angiotensinogen and the angiotensin receptor.

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