Urocortins as biomarkers in cardiovascular disease

The urocortins (Ucns) belong to the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) family of peptides and have multiple effects within the central nervous and the cardiovascular systems. With growing evidence indicating significant cardioprotective properties and cardiovascular actions of these peptides, the question arises as to whether the plasma profiles of the Ucns are altered in pathologic settings. While reports have shown conflicting results and findings have not been corroborated in multiple independent cohorts, it seems likely that plasma Ucn concentrations are elevated in multiple cardiovascular conditions. The degree of increase and accurate determination of circulating values of the Ucns requires further validation.

Automated summary

The urocortins (Ucns) are peptides belonging to the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) family. Growing evidence suggests that Ucns have significant effects within the central nervous and cardiovascular systems, particularly in cardioprotection and cardiovascular actions. However, conflicting results have been reported regarding the alteration of plasma Ucn profiles in pathological conditions, and further validation is needed to accurately determine their concentrations and circulating values in cardiovascular diseases.