1. Any of a group of enzymes found in body tissues and fluids that break down proteins and play a role in inflammation and blood pressure regulation.
Usage: technical; biochemistry; medicine

Examples

• Kallikrein is released during tissue damage and helps trigger the inflammatory response.
• The enzyme kallikrein converts kininogen into bradykinin, a potent inflammatory mediator.
• Researchers are studying kallikrein inhibitors as potential treatments for certain cardiovascular diseases.
• Tissue kallikrein plays an important role in regulating blood vessel function.
• Elevated levels of plasma kallikrein have been observed in patients with certain autoimmune conditions.