What is angiotensin 2
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Summary
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These studies suggest angiotensin II is a peptide hormone involved in blood pressure regulation, cardiovascular function, and disease pathogenesis, with its effects modulated by ACE2 and AT2 receptors.
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Understanding Angiotensin II: Functions and Implications
Introduction to Angiotensin II
Angiotensin II (Ang II) is a potent peptide hormone that plays a crucial role in the regulation of blood pressure and fluid balance. It is a key component of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), which is essential for cardiovascular and renal function. Ang II exerts its effects primarily through two receptor subtypes: Ang II type 1 receptor (AT1R) and Ang II type 2 receptor (AT2R) .
Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor (AT1R)
The AT1R is the most extensively studied receptor for Ang II. It mediates the classical actions of Ang II, including vasoconstriction, stimulation of renal tubular sodium reabsorption, hormonal secretion, cell proliferation, inflammation, and oxidative stress. These actions are critical for maintaining blood pressure and fluid homeostasis but can also contribute to pathological conditions such as hypertension, heart failure, and kidney disease when overactivated.
Angiotensin II Type 2 Receptor (AT2R)
In contrast to AT1R, the AT2R has been less studied but is known to counteract many of the effects mediated by AT1R. AT2R is abundantly expressed in fetal tissues and increases in expression under pathological conditions in adults. Recent studies have highlighted the beneficial effects of AT2R in various pathologies, including obesity, hypertension, and kidney diseases. The discovery of the nonpeptide agonist C21 has further underscored the therapeutic potential of targeting AT2R.
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) and Angiotensin-(1-7)
ACE2 is a critical enzyme in the RAS that degrades Ang II to form Angiotensin-(1-7) . This conversion is significant because Ang-(1-7) has vasodilatory and anti-proliferative effects, which counterbalance the actions of Ang II. ACE2 is predominantly expressed in the kidneys and cardiovascular system, where it plays a protective role against hypertension, heart failure, and diabetic nephropathy .
Therapeutic Implications of ACE2
The therapeutic potential of ACE2 has been explored in various studies. Recombinant ACE2 has shown promise in reducing hypertension, atherosclerosis, and renal damage in animal models . Additionally, ACE2's role in metabolizing Ang II suggests that enhancing ACE2 activity could be a viable strategy for treating cardiovascular and renal diseases .
Angiotensin II and Vascular Remodeling
Ang II is also involved in vascular remodeling, a process that can lead to vascular stiffness and atherosclerosis. ACE2 deficiency exacerbates Ang II-induced vascular remodeling by increasing reactive oxygen species and promoting vascular smooth muscle cell apoptosis. This highlights the importance of ACE2 in maintaining vascular health and preventing pathological changes in the vasculature.
Conclusion
Angiotensin II is a central hormone in the regulation of blood pressure and fluid balance, with significant implications for cardiovascular and renal health. While the AT1R mediates many of the classical actions of Ang II, the AT2R and ACE2 provide counter-regulatory mechanisms that can mitigate the adverse effects of Ang II. Understanding these pathways offers valuable insights into potential therapeutic strategies for managing hypertension, heart failure, and kidney diseases.
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