The renin-angiotensin system and malignancy

Eleanor I Ager1, Jaclyn Neo, Christopher Christophi

  • 1Department of Surgery, Austin Health, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia. eager@unimelb.edu.au

Carcinogenesis
|July 18, 2008
PubMed

Insights

The local renin-angiotensin system (RAS) influences tumor growth and spread. Inhibiting the RAS may offer a safe strategy to reduce cancer risk and slow tumor progression.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is primarily known for its systemic role in cardiovascular homeostasis.
  • Emerging evidence indicates a significant local function of the RAS within tissues, impacting tumor biology.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of the local RAS in influencing tumor growth and metastasis.
  • To explore the potential of targeting the RAS as an anticancer strategy.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent studies on the local RAS and cancer.
  • Analysis of proposed mechanisms of paracrine RAS effects in tumors.

Main Results:

  • The local RAS modulates key cancer processes including angiogenesis, cellular proliferation, immune response, and extracellular matrix formation.
  • Tissue- and tumor-specific differences in local RAS activity are observed.
  • Experimental studies suggest RAS inhibitors can reduce cancer risk and slow tumor growth/metastasis.

Conclusions:

  • The local RAS is implicated in tumor development and progression.
  • Targeting the RAS presents a promising, potentially safe, and cost-effective anticancer therapeutic strategy.

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