Angiotensin type 2 receptor in hypertensive cardiovascular disease

作者：Savoia Carmine^*; D'Agostino Michela; Lauri Francesco; Volpe Massimo

来源：Current Opinion in Nephrology and Hypertension, 2011, 20(2): 125-132.

DOI：10.1097/MNH.0b013e3283437fcd

• angiotensin receptors
• cardiovascular protection
• cardiovascular remodeling

Purpose of review
The renin angiotensin system plays a key role in the development of hypertension-induced cardiovascular remodeling and cardiovascular damage. Angiotensin II (Ang II) exerts its effects by acting on two distinct subtypes of receptor, the angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT(1)R) and the angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT(2)R). Whereas AT(1)R mediates most of the recognized actions of Ang II, it appears that AT(2)R opposes, in part, the actions mediated by AT(1)R. As the AT(2)R is expressed in adult tissues in smaller numbers than AT(1)R, the actions and cell signaling of AT(2)R have been less well characterized than those of AT(1)R.
Recent findings
Current knowledge suggests that AT(2)R stimulation mediates vasodilation, antigrowth, proapoptotic and antiinflammatory effects. Hence, AT(2)R can modulate cardiovascular remodeling as well as the progression of atherosclerosis. A protective role of AT(2)R in the cardiovascular system has been also documented in humans, mainly during chronic AT(1)R inhibition. Furthermore, a new nonpeptide AT(2)R agonist has been developed, with potential future therapeutic applications in hypertensive conditions.
Summary
This article reviews the role of AT(2)R expression signaling and function in the pathogenesis of the functional and structural alterations induced by hypertension on the cardiovascular system.

• 出版日期2011-3