relaxin 2

Relaxin 2 is an endogenous human peptide hormone of the relaxin peptide family, primarily recognized for its pleiotropic biological functions. Originally identified as a reproductive hormone, relaxin 2 exerts potent vasodilatory, angiogenic, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic effects. Its actions are mediated through the relaxin family peptide receptor 1 (RXFP1), triggering numerous downstream signaling pathways in the cardiovascular and extracellular matrix systems. Mechanistically, relaxin 2 promotes nitric oxide and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-2, MMP-9) production, antagonizes vasoconstrictors such as endothelin-1 and angiotensin II, inhibits fibrosis by regulating extracellular matrix remodeling, and increases arterial compliance and cardiac output. Clinical and preclinical studies highlight therapeutic applications in acute heart failure, cardiovascular diseases, and fibrotic diseases, as well as novel uses such as intraarticular injection for joint fibroses (e.g., adhesive capsulitis/frozen shoulder)[1][2][3][4][5][6][7].

Other names

relaxin-2relaxin2relaxin 2H2 relaxinH-2 relaxinH 2 relaxinhuman relaxin-2