[Renalase and its role in the development of hypertension in patients with chronic renal failure].

Renalase is a newly-discovered enzyme--amine oxidase containing flavin adenine dinucleotide that determines its activity. Kidneys are the main source of renalase, however, the enzyme has also been detected in the myocardium, skeletal muscles, small intestine, peripheral nerves, adrenal cortex and adipose tissue. This enzyme metabolizes circulating catecholamines, particularly epinephrine and L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (a dopamine precursor). For this reason, it is considered that renalase may play a significant role in the regulation of blood pressure. There are some factors enhancing the release of renalase: rising catecholamines levels in the circulation and increase in blood pressure. Experimental and clinical studies revealed renalase deficiency in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and hypertension. In contrast, the results of assays based on currently available ELISA kits demonstrate an increase in renalase concentration in patients with CKD. On the basis of currently available studies it is difficult to determine how important are changes in the expression and secretion of renalase in the pathogenesis of hypertension in CKD patients. Stimulation of catecholamines degradation, perhaps using recombinant renalase or its analogues, is a new concept in the treatment of hypertension in CKD.