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The renin-angiotensin system: a link between obesity, inflammation and insulin resistance

N S Kalupahana1, N Moustaid-Moussa

  • 1Obesity Research Center, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4588, USA.

Obesity Reviews : an Official Journal of the International Association for the Study of Obesity
|November 1, 2011
PubMed

Insights

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) links obesity and insulin resistance. Inhibiting RAS improves insulin sensitivity and protects against obesity-related metabolic issues, particularly via adipose tissue RAS.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Metabolic Physiology

Background:

  • The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) classically regulates blood pressure and fluid balance.
  • Local RAS have been identified in various organs, including adipose tissue.
  • RAS overactivation is observed in obesity, suggesting a link to insulin resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review evidence and mechanistic insights on the association between RAS, obesity, and insulin resistance.
  • To highlight the role of adipose tissue RAS in obesity-related metabolic dysfunction.

Main Methods:

  • Review of clinical trial evidence.
  • Analysis of animal model studies with targeted RAS gene inactivation.
  • Examination of mechanistic insights into RAS involvement in metabolic derangements.

Main Results:

  • Pharmacological RAS inhibition shows anti-hypertensive and anti-diabetic effects.
  • Targeted RAS gene inactivation improves insulin sensitivity in animal models.
  • Evidence suggests RAS overactivation in obesity contributes to insulin resistance.

Conclusions:

  • The RAS plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of obesity and insulin resistance.
  • Adipose tissue RAS is a key factor in metabolic derangements associated with obesity.
  • Targeting RAS may offer therapeutic strategies for obesity and type-2 diabetes.

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