Kinin receptors on asthmatic airways: functional subtyping.

Bradykinin, kallidin and [desArg9]-bradykinin are oligopeptides that may contribute as mediators in the pathogenesis of bronchial asthma by interacting with specific cell surface receptors. The structure-activity relationship of kinins within the lower airways has been investigated in 16 asthmatic subjects. The findings of the present study suggest a complex action of kinins on asthmatic airways probably involving more than one receptor subtype.