Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 4, 2026

Receptor Autoradiography Protocol for the Localized Visualization of Angiotensin II Receptors
Published on: June 7, 2016
Renal angiotensin-converting enzyme and blood pressure control
Kenneth E Bernstein1, Jorge F Giani, Xiao Z Shen
1Departments of Biomedical Sciences and Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
Purpose Of Review:
This review presents novel findings regarding the renal angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and its role in blood pressure (BP) control.
Recent Findings:
The textbook flow diagram of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) shows the pulmonary endothelium as the main source of the ACE that converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II. However, ACE is made in large quantities by the kidneys, which raises the important question of what precisely is the function of renal ACE? Recent studies in gene-targeted mice indicates that renal ACE plays a dominant role in regulating the response of the kidney to experimental hypertension. In particular, renal ACE and locally generated angiotensin II affect the activity of several key sodium transporters and the induction of sodium and water retention resulting in the elevation of BP.
Summary:
New experimental data link the renal ACE/angiotensin II pathway and the local regulation of sodium transport as key elements in the development of hypertension.
Related Concept Videos
Antihypertensive Drugs: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors
Antihypertensive Drugs: Direct Renin Inhibitors
Antihypertensive Drugs: Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers
Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure
Hormonal Regulation
Hormonal Regulation of Blood Pressure
Epinephrine and Norepinephrine
The adrenal medulla releases epinephrine and norepinephrine, catecholamines that enhance and extend the sympathetic or "fight or flight" physiological response. These hormones escalate heart rate and the force of contraction...

