Kaolin-induced writhing response in mice: Activation of the plasma kallikrein-kinin system by kaolin.

The plasma kallikrein-kinin system counterbalances the renin-angiotensin system.

(KKS), first recognized over 40 years ago, was originally believed to contribute to physiologic hemostasis. At the time, factor XII (Hageman factor, FXII) and the related proteins prekallikrein (PK) and high molecular–weight kininogen (HK) were known to be essential for efficient surface-activated blood coagulation, as measured in the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) test. Indeed, i...

Evidence that Fitzgerald factor counteracts inhibition by kaolin or ellagic acid of the amidolytic properties of a plasma kallikrein.

Fitzgerald trait, an asymptomatic disorder, is associated with abnormalities of surface-mediated plasma reactions, including coagulation via the intrinsic pathway, augmentation of the clot-promoting properties of factor VII, kaolin-mediated fibrinolysis, kinin generation, and enhancement of vascular permeability by diluted plasma (PF/Dil). These abnormalities can be corrected by Fitzgerald fact...

Lack of Plasma Kallikrein-Kinin System Cascade in Teleosts

The kallikrein-kinin system (KKS) consists of two major cascades in mammals: "plasma KKS" consisting of high molecular-weight (HMW) kininogen (KNG), plasma kallikrein (KLKB1), and bradykinin (BK); and "tissue KKS" consisting of low molecular-weight (LMW) KNG, tissue kallikreins (KLKs), and [Lys(0)]-BK. Some components of the KKS have been identified in the fishes, but systematic analyses have n...

Kaolin dust concentrations and pneumoconiosis at a kaolin mine.

Kaolin is removed from underground seams in the mining area to a processing area, where it is sliced, dried, and pulverised to make the finished product. A study was undertaken to determine the dust concentrations in various work areas and to assess the prevalence of radiographic and pulmonary function abnormalities in 65 workers at a Georgia kaolin mine. Respirable dust concentrations were hig...

Pneumoconiosis of kaolin workers.