[Renin-angiotension system--stress hormone response system]

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Neuroendocrinology

Context:

• Stress significantly elevates Angiotensin II (A II) levels across multiple organs, including the brain, heart, blood vessels, and adrenal glands.
• Plasma A II concentrations in athletes increase markedly post-exercise, mirroring cortisol responses.
• Chronically stressed, hypertensive animals exhibit sustained increases in both circulating and tissue A II.

Purpose:

• To investigate the role of Angiotensin II (A II) as a stress hormone.
• To explore the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) as a stress hormone response system.
• To elucidate the relationship between RAS and established stress hormone pathways.

Summary:

• A II levels rise significantly in acutely and chronically stressed animals and athletes.
• High A II concentrations can stimulate adrenal glucosteroid secretion, potentially facilitated by beta-adrenergic receptor activation.
• Findings suggest A II is a stress hormone, and the RAS functions as a stress response system, closely interacting with the HPA and SAM axes.

Impact:

• Establishes Angiotensin II (A II) as a critical stress hormone.
• Highlights the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) as a key player in physiological stress responses.
• Provides insights into the interconnectedness of major neuroendocrine stress pathways.