Review ArticlesAngiotensin receptors in the nervous system
Section snippets
Renin-angiotensin system
The renin-angiotensin system was initially recognized as a circulating humoral system with the effector octapeptide, angiotensin II (Ang II), being formed by the sequential action of two enzymes, renin and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), on the precursor glycoprotein, angiotensinogen. The actions of Ang II include potent constriction of vascular smooth muscle, retention of renal sodium and water by both direct effects on the kidney and indirectly through stimulation of adrenal aldosterone
Angiotensin receptors
The actions of Ang II are mediated by specific cell surface receptors. A number of receptors for Ang II or fragments of Ang II have been postulated, including at least three receptors for Ang II and receptors for Ang [1–7], Ang III and Ang IV. However, only three receptors have been cloned, the AT1A, AT1B and AT2 receptors, all with high affinity binding of Ang II 74, 105, 107, 131. Both AT1 and AT2 receptors display equal affinity for the peptide receptor antagonists such as [Sar1, Thr8] Ang
Conclusion
Most of the described actions of Ang II in the nervous system are exerted through the AT1 receptor. The distribution of this receptor in the nervous system is well studied in a range of mammals, including humans, and a characteristic, conserved pattern is observed in regions associated with the control of ingestive behavior, neuroendocrine function and autonomic regulation of the cardiovascular system. The distribution of the AT1 receptor is highly correlated with that of Ang II-like
Acknowledgements
This work was supported by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council and the National Heart Foundation of Australia.
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