Endothelin-1: Proteins and Enzymes

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a vascular endothelium derived peptide that acts as a potent vasoconstrictor. It is processed by a furin-like protease to yield a peptide termed Big ET-1. Big ET-1 is then cleaved by ECE-1, producing the mature form ET-1 (1-21). ET-1 expression is induced by mechanical stimulation, various hormones, and pro-inflammatory cy...