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Extrarenal aspects of angiotensin II function

The cloning of angiotensin II (Ang II) receptor genes and the availability of specific receptor ligands allows characterization of Ang II receptor-mediated actions. Most of the well-known Ang II effects such as vasoconstriction, drinking response and cell proliferation are mediated through the AT₁ receptor. Little is known about the physiological effect of the AT₂ receptor, though there are some reports describing the involvement of the AT₂ receptor in blood pressure regulation. Recent data demonstrate that the AT₂-mediated actions are inhibitory to AT₁- and mitogen-induced growth effects, indicating a balancing mechanism for Ang II-controlled mechanisms. It has also been demonstrated that AT₂ receptor inactivation induces endothelial cell proliferation in the presence of Ang II. Additionally, AT₂ receptor activation enhances nerve growth factor-induced differentiation of PC12W cells and a role in apoptotic changes has also been reported.

Based on recent findings, this article focuses on the role of Ang II in growth and differentiation processes with respect to the AT₂ receptor in these events.

European Journal of Endocrinology 136 349–358