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Updated: May 18, 2026

Improved Renal Denervation Mitigated Hypertension Induced by Angiotensin II Infusion
Published on: May 26, 2022
[Current status of vaccination therapy for hypertension]
Hiroyuki Sasamura1, Tatsuhiko Azegami, Hiroshi Itoh
1Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University.
Abstract:
The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays a central role in the control of systemic blood pressure. Since the 1950s, both laboratory and clinical studies have been performed to test the efficacy of vaccines against the RAS for the management of hypertension. Although initial studies using renin vaccines and angiotensin I vaccines were unsuccessful, a recent phase IIa study has shown that vaccination against angiotensin II is effective for the treatment of patients with essential hypertension. Results from animal studies have also suggested that vaccination against the AT1 receptor may be effective not only for lowering blood pressure, but also for the prevention of hypertensive end-organ damage. In the future, the RAS may be an important target for the development of vaccines not only for the treatment, but also for the prevention of hypertension and hypertensive complications.
Insights
Vaccines targeting the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) show promise for hypertension. Vaccination against angiotensin II effectively treated essential hypertension in a phase IIa study, suggesting future therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Research
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Context:
- The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is crucial for regulating systemic blood pressure.
- Hypertension management has historically explored vaccines targeting the RAS.
- Previous vaccine strategies against renin and angiotensin I yielded limited success.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the efficacy of vaccines targeting the RAS for hypertension treatment and prevention.
- To assess the potential of angiotensin II and AT1 receptor vaccines in managing essential hypertension and its complications.
Summary:
- A recent phase IIa clinical trial demonstrated that vaccination against angiotensin II is effective in treating essential hypertension.
- Animal studies indicate that AT1 receptor vaccination may lower blood pressure and prevent hypertensive end-organ damage.
Impact:
- Vaccines targeting the RAS represent a novel therapeutic strategy for hypertension.
- Future vaccine development could offer new avenues for preventing hypertension and its associated complications.
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