Human calcitonin gene-related peptide activates adenylate cyclase and releases prostacyclin from human umbilical vein endothelial cells.

1 Endothelial cells of human umbilical vein were isolated and cultured in vitro. 2 In these cells there was a concentration-dependent release of prostacyclin and activation of adenylate cyclase by human calcitonin gene-related peptide (hCGRP). The concentration of hCGRP for half-maximum activation of adenylate cyclase (Kact) by hCGRP was 190 nM. 3 Bradykinin induced a ten fold greater release of prostacyclin than CGRP, but did not activate adenylate cyclase. 4 hCGRP may exert its potent vasodilator properties by stimulating release of vasorelaxant substances, including prostacyclin from endothelial cells.