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Updated: Jul 5, 2026
12:03
Receptor Autoradiography Protocol for the Localized Visualization of Angiotensin II Receptors
Published on: June 7, 2016
Local adipose tissue renin-angiotensin system.
Lisa A Cassis1, Sara B Police, Frederique Yiannikouris
1Graduate Center for Nutritional Sciences, Wethington Building, Room 521b, 900 South Limestone Street, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536-0200, USA. lcassis@uky.edu
Current Hypertension Reports
|May 14, 2008
Summary
A local renin-angiotensin system (RAS) exists in fat cells, influencing obesity and high blood pressure. Blocking this system may help treat hypertension in diabetic and obese patients.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Metabolic Research
Background:
- A local renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is implicated in adipocytes.
- Adipocyte RAS component production is linked to obesity-hypertension.
- Angiotensin receptors (AT1 and AT2) are found in adipocytes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of the adipocyte RAS in physiological processes.
- To investigate the link between adipose tissue RAS and hypertension.
- To evaluate the therapeutic potential of RAS blockade.
Main Methods:
- Localization of RAS components and receptors in adipocytes.
- Assessment of Angiotensin II effects on adipocyte function.
- Analysis of regional RAS expression in adipose tissue depots.
- Review of clinical studies on RAS blockade efficacy.
Main Results:
- Angiotensin II regulates adipocyte growth, differentiation, lipid metabolism, and adipokine release.
- Angiotensin II promotes oxidative stress in adipocytes.
- Regional differences in RAS expression suggest a link between abdominal obesity and cardiovascular disease.
- RAS blockade shows antihypertensive effects in obese and diabetic patients.
Conclusions:
- The adipocyte RAS plays a significant role in regulating metabolic functions and blood pressure.
- Targeting the adipocyte RAS may offer therapeutic benefits for hypertension, particularly in obese and diabetic individuals.
- Further research on adipocyte-specific RAS component deficiency is crucial to confirm its physiological relevance.
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