Angiotensin-(1–7): beyond its central effects on blood pressure

Abstract

Angiotensin (Ang) (1–7) is the main component of the depressor and protective arm of the renin-angiotensin system. Ang-(1–7) induces vasodilation, natriuresis and diuresis, cardioprotection, inhibits angiogenesis and cell growth and opposes the pressor, proliferative, profibrotic, and prothrombotic actions mediated by Ang II. Centrally, Ang-(1–7) induces changes in mean arterial pressure and this effect may be linked with its inhibitory neuromodulatory action on norepinephrine neurotransmission. The present review is focused on the role of Ang-(1–7) as a protective agent in the brain.