[A role of kallikrein-kinin system in gut diseases].

Kallikreins are serine proteases, which are divided into plasma kallikrein and tissue kallikrein. Kallikreins cleave kininogen, theirs main substrate to release bradykinin, a potent inflammatory mediator. Kinins act directly by B2 and B1 receptors, or indirectly stimulating synthesis of nitric oxide, prostanoids and cytokinines by epithelial cells, smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells and fibroblasts. Recent experimental studies and clinical data indicate a pathogenic role of the kallikrein-kinin system in gastrointestinal disorders including inflammatory bowel disease, acute pancreatitis, colorectal and gastric cancer and pathogenesis of ascites. New molecular biology techniques and development of specific antibodies permit to evaluate the expression of genes and localization of proteins of the kallikrein-kinin components. Experimental studies indicate a modulatory effect of a specific kallikrein inhibition and kinin receptor antagonist suggesting its therapeutic potential in human gut diseases.