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angiotensin II

peptide
Also known as: AT2, angiotonin, hypertensin

Quick Summary

Angiotensin II is a peptide that plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure by constricting blood vessels. It is part of the renin-angiotensin system, which is initiated when the kidneys release an enzyme called renin. Renin acts on a protein from the liver, angiotensinogen, to produce angiotensin I. This is then converted to angiotensin II by angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE).12

Angiotensin II directly causes blood vessels to narrow, increasing blood pressure. It also stimulates the adrenal glands to release aldosterone, which promotes salt and water reabsorption by the kidneys. Drugs that block ACE or angiotensin II receptors are used to treat hypertension.12

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  1. angiotensin
  2. renin-angiotensin system

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