Washington: A new study has revealed that a peptide originally found in fish that could be used in the battle against cardiovascular disease.

Researcher David Lambert from the University of to the review of fish peptide to pull together the vast literature on Urotensin II (UII), a peptide first isolated from teleost fish.

UII activates a G protein-coupled receptor called UT to modulate a number of signalling pathways including intracellular Calcium. Interestingly, the peptide can constrict some blood vessels yet dilate others.

The review has shown that UII can modulate a vast array of biologic activities encompassing the cardiovascular system, kidneys and central nervous system.

Lambert said that they have been working on this exciting peptide for a number of years; it exhibits a very interesting pharmacological profile. Design and evaluation of small molecule drugs has potential for use in the treatment of several cardiovascular diseases.

The study published in the journal Pharmacological Reviews.