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A renin-like activity in the human hypophysis
Endocrinologie
|January 1, 1977
Summary
Human pituitary tissue contains a renin-like enzyme. This enzyme activity, measured in both anterior and posterior pituitary, suggests a potential role in local physiological processes.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Biochemistry
- Physiology
Background:
- The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is crucial for blood pressure regulation.
- While the kidney is the primary source of renin, evidence suggests its presence in other tissues.
- The pituitary gland's role in RAS is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify renin-like activity (RA) in human pituitary tissue.
- To investigate the distribution of RA within the anterior and posterior pituitary.
- To explore the potential functional implications of pituitary RA.
Main Methods:
- Acetone-dried human pituitary tissue was used for analysis.
- The Boucher micromethod was employed to determine enzyme activity.
- Quantification was based on angiotensin II generation per unit of tissue protein per hour.
Main Results:
- A significant renin-like enzyme activity was detected in human pituitary tissue.
- The mean pituitary concentration of RA was 60.4 ± 7.1 ng angiotensin II/g tissue protein/h.
- RA was found in both anterior and posterior pituitary regions.
Conclusions:
- Human pituitary tissue possesses intrinsic renin-like enzyme activity.
- The presence of RA in the pituitary suggests local functions independent of renal renin.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific role of pituitary RA and its relationship with brain renin.