What is angiotensin?

Angiotensin is a hormone that plays a key role in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance in the body. It is produced by the liver and released into the bloodstream in response to low blood pressure or low blood volume. Angiotensin acts on blood vessels to constrict them, increasing blood pressure, and also stimulates the release of aldosterone, a hormone that helps regulate sodium and water balance in the body. Dysregulation of the renin-angiotensin system, which controls the production of angiotensin, can lead to hypertension and other cardiovascular problems.

Angiotensin is a hormone that plays a key role in the regulation of blood pressure and fluid balance in the body. It is produced by the kidneys and is involved in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS).

Function:

- Vasoconstriction: Angiotensin causes the blood vessels to narrow (vasoconstriction), which increases blood pressure.
- Stimulation of aldosterone release: Angiotensin stimulates the release of aldosterone, a hormone that promotes sodium retention and water conservation, leading to an increase in blood volume.
- Thirst sensation: Angiotensin stimulates the thirst center in the brain, leading to increased water intake.

Forms:

- Angiotensin I (Ang I): A precursor hormone produced by the kidneys.
- Angiotensin II (Ang II): The main active form of angiotensin, which is produced by the conversion of Ang I by an enzyme called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE).
- Angiotensin III (Ang III): A less active form of angiotensin, which also contributes to blood pressure regulation.

Pharmacology:

Drugs that block the RAAS, such as ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), are widely used to treat hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions by lowering blood pressure.

Clinical Significance:

Dysregulation of the RAAS can lead to conditions such as:

- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Heart failure
- Kidney disease
- Electrolyte imbalances