Angiotensin II receptors

In addition to blood pressure and volume regulation, the renin-angiotensin system is now believed to play a role in diverse areas. In recent years, new information concerning angiotensin receptors has improved dramatically our understanding of cellular and molecular mechanisms by which the renin-angiotensin system exerts its actions. Two major distinct classes of angiotensin II receptors, type 1 and type 2, have been noted. The vast majority of currently recognized actions of angiotensin II are mediated by angiotensin II type 1 receptors. Significant progress has been made in elucidating multiple signal transduction mechanisms for angiotensin II type 1 receptors. Angiotensin II type 2 receptors are noted in a variety of tissues, and functions mediated by these receptors are just beginning to be defined. Interactions among subtypes of angiotensin II receptors are increasingly recognized as having considerable potential medical importance with respect to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular and renal disease and to physiologic functions in a variety of organ systems.