[Structure of the renin-angiotensin system and its significance in the body]

Renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is a methabolic pathway producing octapeptid angiotensin II (AII) with vasoconstrictive effects, which is also involved in the regulation of water homeostasis and electrolyte balance in the organism. Genes encoding individual components of the RAS can be considered as "candidate genes" for some cardiovascular diseases e.g. hypertension or myocardial infarction. Besides the circulating RAS, also local tissue systems exist. Local RASs are involved in various physiological functions e.g. regulation of growth and proliferation, apoptosis or signal transmission where AII serves as the neurotransmitter.