Angiotensin-(1-7) Improves Integrated Cardiometabolic Function in Aged Mice

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Metabolic Science
• Aging Research

Background:

• The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) hormone Angiotensin (1-7) shows protective cardiometabolic effects in young models.
• The effects of Angiotensin (1-7) on cardiovascular and metabolic health during aging are unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if Angiotensin (1-7) can reduce age-related increases in blood pressure and insulin resistance in mice.
• To explore the impact of Angiotensin (1-7) on cardiovascular and metabolic outcomes in aging.

Main Methods:

• Young adult and aged male mice received Angiotensin (1-7) or saline for six weeks via osmotic mini-pump.
• Measurements included arterial blood pressure, body composition, insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance, tissue masses, and cardiac gene expression.

Main Results:

• Chronic Angiotensin (1-7) treatment reduced systolic and mean blood pressure in aged mice.
• Insulin sensitivity was improved in aged mice treated with Angiotensin (1-7) to levels seen in young mice.
• Blood pressure reduction was linked to decreased cardiac sympathetic outflow.

Conclusions:

• Angiotensin (1-7) attenuates age-related hypertension and insulin resistance in mice.
• Angiotensin (1-7) may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for mitigating age-associated cardiometabolic risks.