protein_function: Endothelins are endothelium-derived vasoconstrictorpeptides.
The endothelins is a family of structurally and pharmacologically distinct peptides, which has been identified and sequenced in humans. Three isoforms of human endothelin have been identified: endothelin-1, -2, and -3. Endothelin-1 is a potent, 21-amino acid vasoconstrictor peptide produced by vascular endothelial cells. Endothelins are 21-amino acid vasoconstricting peptides produced primarily in the endothelium having a key role in vascular homeostasis. Endothelins are implicated in vascular diseases of several organ systems, including the heart, general circulation and brain. Endothelins are proteins that constrict blood vessels and raise blood pressure. They are normally kept in balance by other mechanisms, but when they are over-expressed, they contribute to high blood pressure(hypertension) and heart disease.
