Angiotensin II receptor type 1

Angiotensin II receptor type 1 (AT1 receptor) is a type of protein that is part of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), which regulates blood pressure and fluid balance in the body. The AT1 receptor is primarily responsible for the vasoconstrictive effects of angiotensin II, a hormone that increases blood pressure.

Structure

The AT1 receptor is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that is composed of seven transmembrane domains. It is encoded by the AGTR1 gene in humans. The receptor is found in various tissues throughout the body, including the heart, kidney, and vascular smooth muscle.

Function

The primary function of the AT1 receptor is to mediate the effects of angiotensin II. When angiotensin II binds to the AT1 receptor, it triggers a series of intracellular events that result in vasoconstriction, increased aldosterone secretion, and increased vasopressin secretion. These actions collectively increase blood pressure and fluid balance.

Clinical significance

The AT1 receptor is a target for several types of antihypertensive drugs, including angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors). These drugs work by blocking the binding of angiotensin II to the AT1 receptor, thereby reducing its vasoconstrictive effects and lowering blood pressure.

See also

• Angiotensin II receptor type 2
• Renin-angiotensin system
• Angiotensin receptor blocker
• Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor

References

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