Serelaxin (Relaxin-2)
Overview
Serelaxin is a recombinant form of human relaxin-2, a naturally occurring peptide hormone composed of two chains linked by disulfide bonds. It acts via the relaxin family peptide receptor 1 (RXFP1) to promote vasodilation, inhibit fibrosis, and modulate hemodynamics. The therapeutic rationale targets acute heart failure by improving renal perfusion and reducing vascular resistance.
Key Research Findings
The RELAX-AHF trial (Lancet, 2013) demonstrated improved dyspnea and reduced 180-day mortality in acute heart failure patients, but the subsequent RELAX-AHF-2 trial (JAMA, 2017) failed to confirm a mortality or cardiovascular event benefit. The FDA did not approve serelaxin, and further development was discontinued.
Intravenous
Investigational
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