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Angiotensin Receptor Blockers Are Not Just for Hypertension Anymore
1Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia.
Physiology (Bethesda, Md.)
|April 27, 2021
Summary
Angiotensin receptor blockers offer benefits beyond blood pressure control. These drugs reduce inflammation and protect organ function, showing potential for treating various age-related and metabolic disorders.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are primarily used for hypertension.
- Emerging evidence suggests ARBs possess pleiotropic effects beyond their antihypertensive action.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the multifaceted protective mechanisms of angiotensin receptor blockers.
- To explore the therapeutic potential of ARBs in non-cardiovascular conditions.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical and clinical studies investigating ARB mechanisms.
- Analysis of data on inflammation, endothelial function, mitochondrial health, and neurological outcomes.
Main Results:
- ARBs mitigate excessive inflammation and protect endothelial and mitochondrial function.
- These agents positively influence insulin sensitivity, coagulation, and immune responses.
- Observed improvements in cerebrovascular flow and cognitive function.
Conclusions:
- Angiotensin receptor blockers demonstrate broad organ protection, including in the brain and lungs.
- Their anti-inflammatory and protective properties suggest utility in treating inflammatory, age-related, neurodegenerative, and metabolic disorders.
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