The kallikrein/kinin system and kinin antagonists in trauma.

These data and others indicate that the kallikrein/kinin system is activated in both systemic and central nervous system trauma and that specific kinin antagonists are active in animal models of systemic and CNS trauma. In addition, preliminary data in humans suggest that kinin antagonists may have a role in the management of traumatic brain injury. Clearly, further studies in these indications are indicated.