KLK4 and hypertensive disorder: Other studies have shown that minor increases in levels of serum SERPINA1 are associated with the development of arterial hypertension and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The authors suggested that by inhibiting the activity of the kallikrein-kinin system, an up-regulation of plasma SERPINA1 favors the renin-angiotensin system, leading to systemic vasoconstriction and hypertension. Urinary albumin excretion is a hallmark of PE.