Brain renin angiotensin in disease

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• The existence and function of a brain renin-angiotensin system (RAS) were initially debated due to the established role of the circulating, kidney-derived RAS.
• Advancements in molecular biology and high standards of proof have solidified the brain RAS as a robust concept.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the established and emerging roles of the brain RAS in neuroscience and cardiovascular physiology.
• To highlight the brain RAS as a model neuropeptide system with implications for various neurological disorders.

Main Methods:

• Confirmation of brain RAS components and their localization using molecular biology techniques.
• Utilizing transgenic mice and rats to investigate the importance of brain RAS.
• Employing Cre-lox technology for precise gene deletion in specific brain nuclei.

Main Results:

• Molecular biology confirmed the presence and location of brain RAS components.
• Transgenic models demonstrated the significance of brain RAS.
• The brain RAS, including ACE-2, Ang1-7, and Mas receptors, influences neural pathways, sympathetic activity, and baroreflexes.
• Angiotensin II (ANG II) generated in the brain mediates diverse neural and behavioral effects via specific receptor subtypes.

Conclusions:

• The brain RAS is a crucial system with established roles in cardiovascular control and fluid homeostasis.
• Emerging evidence implicates brain RAS in Alzheimer's disease, stroke, memory, learning, alcoholism, stress, and depression.
• The brain RAS presents a promising target for developing novel therapeutic strategies for neurological diseases.