Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 5, 2026

Receptor Autoradiography Protocol for the Localized Visualization of Angiotensin II Receptors
Published on: June 7, 2016
The Subfornical organ: A central target for renin-angiotensin system regulation
Fatemeh Mollaei1, Sara Rahmati1, Farzaneh Ahmadi Fordooii1
1Autonomous Nervous System (ANS) Association, Students' Scientific Research Center (SSRC), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran..
Abstract:
The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is a pivotal system for regulating blood volume, electrolyte balance, and systemic vascular resistance. The system exerts its functions through various central targets, particularly those located in the brain. Among these, the subfornical organ (SFO) plays a unique and integrative role. High permeability and the lack of a functional blood-brain barrier (BBB) enable the organ to monitor changes in body fluid composition and transduce these signals into autonomic and behavioral outputs. Its extensive neural projections facilitate the monitoring of circulating factors. The interaction between the RAS and the SFO has gained great attention regarding the activation of different receptors, including angiotensin AT1 and AT2 receptors, and molecular pathways such as protein kinase C, mitogen-activated protein kinase, and growth factor receptor pathways. These interactions are involved in disorders including hypertension and chronic kidney disease. This review summarizes current evidence on RAS-SFO interactions and their pathological significance.
Related Concept Videos
Hormonal Regulation
Introduction to Urinary System
The kidneys are bean-shaped organs located in the retroperitoneal space, on either side of the vertebral column, between the T12 and L3 vertebrae. They are partially protected by the rib cage and surrounded by perirenal fat, which provides cushioning. They are responsible for urine formation and play critical roles in regulating blood pressure, electrolyte levels, and hormone production. The ureters...
Glomerular Filtration Rate and its Regulation
GFR regulation involves two primary intrinsic controls: the myogenic and tubuloglomerular feedback mechanisms.
The myogenic...
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 while...
Blood and Nerve Supply to the Kidney
Bloody Supply to the Kidneys:
The kidneys receive their blood supply from the renal arteries, which branch off from the abdominal aorta—the main artery supplying the abdomen and lower body. The renal arteries enter the kidneys at the hilum, a notch on the medial side of each...
Neural Regulation of Blood Pressure
Baroreceptor Reflex
Baroreceptors, located in the carotid sinuses and aortic arch, detect changes in blood pressure. When blood pressure rises, these stretch-sensitive receptors...
