Fish compound can fight against heart disease

A peptide originally found in fish could be used in the battle against cardiovascular disease, research has found.

The peptide Urotensin II (UII) was first isolated from teleost fish, a class of ray-finned fishes.

UII can modulate a vast array of biologic activities encompassing the cardiovascular system, kidneys and central nervous system, the findings showed.

"We have been working on this exciting peptide for a number of years; it exhibits a very interesting pharmacological profile. Design and evaluation of small molecule drugs has potential for use in the treatment of several cardiovascular diseases," said professor David lambert from the University of leicester in Britain.

Interestingly, the peptide can constrict some blood vessels yet dilate others, the researchers noted.