L'apéline, une nouvelle molécule prometteuse dans le traitement de la défaillance cardiaque aiguë ?

Apelin is a short neuropeptide expressed in most of human organs and tissues, including the cardiovascular system. Apelin −13, −17 and −36 active isoforms, can bind to the specific APJ receptor. Apelin is involved in various biological processes and is a critical molecule in the regulation of heart organogenesis and cardiovascular homeostasis. Apelin exhibits inotropic, and possibly lusitropic and dromotropic properties. The expression of apelin is modulated by heart failure, post myocardial infarction and sepsis. Animal models of reperfusion injuries have revealed a cardioprotective role for this neuropeptide. The aim of this short review is to summarize the recent knowledge on multiple functions related to apelin into the cardiovascular system, including a protective role, and to present therapeutic perspectives for heart failure, myocardial infarction and sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction.