Therapeutic potential of blockade of the urotensin II system in system hypertension

Urotensin II, an 11-amino acid peptide, has been found to be the most potent vasoconstrictor yet described, in certain vascular beds. Discovery of its endogenous receptor (UII-R) has ignited considerable interest in this system's role in disease state associated with increased vascular tone (eg, systemic hypertension). Urotensin II was shown to have direct effects on the heart in addition to effects on vascular tone. In human systemic hypertension, increased plasma levels of urotensin II were noted, with a weak but significant correlation ot absolute blood pressure levels. Furthermore, hypertensive patients demonstrate net vasoconstrictor responsiveness in skin microcirculation compared to normal controls. Highly selective UII-R antagonists have been developed based on the known structure of UII-R. Early preclinical and clinical studies report potential beneficial effects in renal disease, heart failure, and diabetes, although effects on blood pressure have been equivocal.