Non-peptide antagonists for kinin B1 receptors:: never insights into their therapeutic potential for the management of inflammation and pain

Kinin B-1 and B-2 receptors are central to the aetiology of pain and inflammation. Constitutive B-2 receptors are commonly associated with the acute phase of inflammation and nociception, whereas the inducible B-1 receptors are mostly linked to the chronic or persistent phase (or both). Therefore, selective, orally active kinin B-1 receptor antagonists could be potentially therapeutic. B-1 receptor antagonists have long been exclusively peptides, but recently a few non-peptide representatives have been identified. The clinical potential of these non-peptide molecules has not yet been evaluated, but they might have a role in treating persistent inflammation and pain, especially when no satisfactory therapy is available. This review summarizes recent advances in the identification and the potential therapeutic properties of these molecules.