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Inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system and target organ protection

Jun Iwanami1, Masaki Mogi, Masaru Iwai

  • 1Department of Molecular Cardiovascular Biology and Pharmacology, Ehime University, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohon, Ehime, Japan.

Hypertension Research : Official Journal of the Japanese Society of Hypertension
|March 6, 2009
PubMed

Insights

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays a key role in hypertension and organ damage. Inhibiting RAS can protect organs and lower blood pressure by blocking angiotensin II signaling.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Science
  • Nephrology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is implicated in hypertension and target organ damage.
  • RAS inhibition, via ACE inhibitors and Ang II receptor blockers, targets Ang II type 1 receptor signaling.
  • Beneficial effects of RAS inhibition are known for cardiovascular diseases affecting the heart, vasculature, and kidneys.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the broader role of RAS in tissue damage beyond cardiovascular disease.
  • To highlight the significance of local RAS and other regulatory pathways in tissue protection.
  • To discuss novel therapeutic strategies targeting RAS for organ protection.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on RAS and its role in various organ systems.
  • Analysis of the mechanisms of RAS involvement in hypertension and tissue damage.
  • Discussion of emerging concepts in RAS regulation and therapeutic interventions.

Main Results:

  • RAS inhibition prevents damage in heart, vasculature, and kidneys.
  • RAS inhibition also protects other tissues like the brain, adipose tissue, and muscle from damage.
  • Local RAS activity is crucial for tissue damage, independent of circulating RAS.

Conclusions:

  • RAS blockade is therapeutically effective for preventing organ damage and hypertension.
  • Understanding complex RAS mechanisms, including local RAS and other signaling pathways, is key for developing new treatments.
  • Emerging concepts in RAS regulation offer new avenues for tissue protection therapies.

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