Role of vascular Kinin B1 and B2 receptors in endothelial nitric oxide metabolism

► Kinin B1 (inducible) and B2 (constitutive) receptors are located in vascular cells. ► Vascular reactivity and nitric oxide metabolism were studied in B1−/− and B2−/− mice. ► B1−/− and B2−/− present endothelial dysfunction and reduced NO levels. ► NO reduced availability is not related to vascular NO synthase deficiency. ► Kinin receptors may control oxidative processes involved in NO inactivation.