Apelin-12 is a bioactive peptide involved in regulating cardiovascular function. It acts as an endogenous ligand for the APJ receptor, playing a key role in enhancing cardiac contractility and promoting vasodilation, which helps lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. Due to these effects, it is studied for potential use in treating heart failure and other cardiovascular diseases.

It also influences fluid homeostasis and has shown insulin-sensitizing properties, suggesting a role in metabolic regulation. This makes Apelin-12 a candidate for research in diabetes and obesity-related conditions.

In addition, Apelin-12 has been linked to angiogenesis—the formation of new blood vessels—supporting its investigation in tissue repair and ischemic conditions such as myocardial infarction and peripheral artery disease.

Neuroprotective effects have been observed in preclinical models, indicating possible applications in central nervous system disorders, including stroke and neurodegenerative diseases.

Overall, Apelin-12 is primarily a research tool at this stage, used to explore therapeutic pathways in cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurological diseases.