Angiotensin (1-7)


Angiotensin is an active heptapeptide of the renin–angiotensin system.
In 1988, Santos et al showed that Angiotensin- was a main product of the incubation of Angiotensin I with brain micropunches. In the same year Schiavone et al, reported the first biological effect of this heptapeptide.
Angiotensin is a vasodilator agent that plays important roles in cardiovascular organs, such as heart, blood vessels, and kidneys having functions frequently opposed to those attributed to the major effector component of the RAS, angiotensin II.

Synthesis

The polypeptide Ang I can be converted into Ang by the actions of neprilysin and thimet oligopeptidase enzymes. Also, Ang II can be hydrolyzed into Ang through the actions of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2. Ang binds and activates the G-protein coupled receptor Mas receptor leading to opposite effects of those of Ang II.

Possible synthesis pathways

Ang has been shown to have anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Ang plays protective roles in cardiomyocytes of spontaneously hypertensive rat by increasing the expression of endothelial and neuronal nitric oxide synthase enzymes leading to augmented production of nitric oxide. Ultimately, Ang evokes anti-arrhythmogenic effects in animal models. In blood vessels, Ang induces the release of vasodilators such as prostanoids and nitric oxide.

Pharmacological interactions

In addition, it has been demonstrated that Ang contributes to the beneficial effects of ACE inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor type 1 antagonists.