Urotensin II: Oligopeptide Research Reference
Cyclic 11-amino acid peptide that activates the UT receptor, considered the most potent mammalian vasoconstrictor. Covers molecular mechanisms, biological ac...
Chemical Identity
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C62H94N16O14S2 |
| Molecular Weight | 1311 Da |
| Peptide Class | Cyclic Undecapeptide |
| Sequence | ETPDCFWKYCV (disulfide: Cys4-Cys10) |
| Receptor | UT (formerly GPR14) |
Structure
Urotensin II (UII) is an 11-amino acid cyclic peptide with a disulfide bridge between Cys4 and Cys10, forming a 7-membered ring. The CFWKY pentapeptide within the ring is highly conserved across species. UII is produced from a precursor protein by prohormone convertase processing.
Mechanism of Action
UII binds the UT receptor (formerly GPR14), a G-protein coupled receptor. UT activation causes potent vasoconstriction (more potent than endothelin-1 in some vascular beds), cardiac effects (positive inotropy, negative chronotropy), and promotes vascular smooth muscle proliferation and fibrosis.
Clinical Applications
- Heart failure: Elevated UII levels correlate with disease severity
- Pulmonary hypertension: Contributes to pulmonary vasoconstriction
- Atherosclerosis: UII promotes plaque formation
- Diabetes: Elevated levels associated with complications
- UT antagonists: Under development for cardiovascular disease
Pharmacology
- Potency: Most potent mammalian vasoconstrictor
- Distribution: CNS, cardiovascular system, kidneys
- UT receptor: Gq/G12/13 signaling
- Species differences: Variable vascular effects
References
- Ames, R.S., et al. (1999). Human urotensin-II is a potent vasoconstrictor. Nature, 401, 282-286.
- Douglas, S.A., et al. (2000). Urotensin-II: a novel vasoactive peptide. British Journal of Pharmacology, 131, 339-344.
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