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Receptor Autoradiography Protocol for the Localized Visualization of Angiotensin II Receptors
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Obesity-associated activation of angiotensin and endothelin in the cardiovascular system

Matthias Barton1, Renata Carmona, Jana Ortmann

  • 1Medical Policlinic, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Zürich, Rämistrasse 100, CH-8091 Zürich, Switzerland. barton@swissonline.ch

The International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology
|April 5, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Obesity activates the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and endothelin system, contributing to cardiovascular diseases. Understanding these interactions is crucial for managing obesity-related hypertension and atherosclerosis.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Science
  • Renal Medicine
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and endothelin system are key in cardiovascular and renal diseases.
  • Obesity is linked to hypertension, atherosclerosis, and glomerulosclerosis, but mechanisms are unclear.
  • RAS inhibition improves outcomes in cardiovascular diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To discuss the clinical significance of obesity.
  • To review evidence for local RAS activation in obesity.
  • To explore RAS and endothelin system interactions in obesity-related cardiovascular pathologies.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and synthesis of existing evidence.
  • Discussion of clinical data and mechanistic insights.
  • Focus on the interplay between metabolic and cardiovascular systems.

Main Results:

  • Evidence suggests local RAS activation in obesity.
  • The endothelin system may interact with RAS in obese individuals.
  • These interactions likely contribute to cardiovascular pathologies.

Conclusions:

  • Obesity-associated cardiovascular and renal diseases may involve local RAS and endothelin system activation.
  • Further research into these interactions could reveal novel therapeutic targets.
  • Managing obesity is critical for preventing associated cardiovascular complications.

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