Ferrario CM, Nartell N, Pnillas C, Yunis C, Bridget K, et al
Essential hypertension is associated with low urinary levels of angiotensin (1-7)
50th Annual Fall Conference AHA Council for High Blood Pressure Research
Hypertens (Sep) 28:515 1996

Ferrario and colleagues have previously demonstrated that a metabolite of agiotensin, Ang-(1-7) promotes natriuresis and diuresis in rats. Ang-(1-7) is found in high concentrations in rat urine, and the authors have proposed that urinary excretion is a potential index of intrarenal angiotensin production. They have now extended their observations into humans where they demonstrate that essential hypertensives have significantly lower urinary concentrations and excretion rates of Ang-(1-7) compared to normotensives. In addition, they noted an inverse correlation between urinary Ang-(1-7) concentrations and blood pressure. The correlation suggests the possibility that a diminished depressor action for Ang- (1-7) could contribute to hypertension.

Comment: Ang-(1-7) is a metabolite of Ang I and II, and is found in brain (where it may have biological activity relating to sympathetic outflow and baroceptor responses), blood and urine. Earlier studies suggest that ang-(1-7) can increase prostaglandin production in some tissues, and increased prostaglandin production in kidneys could contribute to a natriuretic effect. Alternatively, Ang-(1-7) also can inhibit aldosterone production, which could promote natriuresis. The effects of anthipertensive drugs and nonpharmacological interventions may provide further insight into the role, if any, of Ang-(1-7) in human hypertension. (Alan Weder, M.D., University of Michigan)

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50th Annual Fall Conference AHA Council for High Blood Pressure Research
H: Pathophysiology : Hormonal aberrations