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[Angiotensinogen: gene expression and protein localization in human tissues]
1Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Hokkaido University School of Medicine, Sapporo.
[Hokkaido Igaku Zasshi] the Hokkaido Journal of Medical Science
|March 1, 1990
Summary
Angiotensinogen, the precursor to angiotensin II, is synthesized in the liver and also in human heart tissues. This finding suggests a significant role for the local renin-angiotensin system in cardiac function.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Cardiology
Context:
- The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is crucial for blood pressure regulation.
- Angiotensinogen is the precursor peptide in the RAS, primarily synthesized in the liver.
- Recent evidence suggests local tissue-based RAS components independent of the circulating system.
Purpose:
- To investigate the sites of angiotensinogen synthesis in human tissues.
- To determine if angiotensinogen is produced in organs beyond the liver.
- To elucidate the localization of angiotensinogen within the human heart.
Summary:
- This study detected angiotensinogen messenger RNA in the liver, kidneys, heart, and brain.
- Immunohistochemical analysis revealed intense angiotensinogen staining in atrial muscle and the cardiac conduction system.
- Angiotensinogen was also found in the kidneys and liver, but predominantly localized to specific cardiac cells.
Impact:
- Demonstrates extrahepatic synthesis of angiotensinogen, particularly in the human heart.
- Highlights the presence and localization of angiotensinogen in cardiac tissues.
- Suggests a significant role for a local tissue renin-angiotensin system in cardiac physiology and potentially pathology.