Angiotensin
Angiotensin
Angiotensin (/ˌændʒioʊˈtɛnsɪn/) is a peptide hormone that causes vasoconstriction and an increase in blood pressure. It is part of the Renin–angiotensin system, which is a major target for drugs that lower blood pressure.
Etymology
The term "angiotensin" comes from the words "angio-" meaning blood vessel, and "-tensin" meaning tension or pressure. It was first isolated and identified in the 1950s.
Types
There are three forms of angiotensin: Angiotensin I, Angiotensin II, and Angiotensin III. Angiotensin I is converted to Angiotensin II by the enzyme Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which is found in the lungs. Angiotensin II is the most active form and has a variety of effects on the body.
Function
Angiotensin II acts on many tissues in the body to increase blood pressure. It does this by causing blood vessels to constrict, promoting the release of Aldosterone from the adrenal glands, and stimulating the release of Vasopressin from the pituitary gland.
Related Terms
- Renin: An enzyme that catalyzes the first step in the renin–angiotensin system to produce angiotensin.
- Aldosterone: A hormone that increases the reabsorption of sodium and water and the release of potassium in the kidneys, which in turn increases blood volume and blood pressure.
- Vasopressin: Also known as antidiuretic hormone (ADH), it is a hormone that regulates the body's retention of water.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Angiotensin
- Wikipedia's article - Angiotensin
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