Plasma nociceptin/orphanin FQ levels are lower in patients with chronic ischemic cardiovascular diseases-A pilot study

► Circulating level of nociceptin was studied in patients with angina pectoris. ► Significantly lower levels were found in all groups of patients. ► Nociceptin level was in positive correlation with severity of chronic ischemia. ► Atherosclerosis related chronic ischemia results in decreased plasma level. ► Low nociceptin plasma level may predispose for acute cardiovascular syndromes.