Introduction:

• Ang1-7 is a peptide from the renin-angiotensin system (RAS)
• Important for blood pressure control and cardiovascular balance
• Regulates body fluid levels
• Promotes vasodilation and provides protective benefits
• Often overshadowed by Angiotensin II

Synthesis and Mechanism of Action:

• Produced from Angiotensin II using enzymes like:
• Neprilysin
• ACE2 (angiotensin converting enzyme 2)
• Prolyl endopeptidase
• Interacts with Mas receptor (G protein coupled receptor)
• Triggers nitric oxide synthase (NOS)
• Increases nitric oxide production
• Affects cell death, inflammation, and cellular growth

Role in Cardiovascular Health - Vasodilatory Effects:

• Causes blood vessel widening/relaxation
• Decreases blood vessel resistance
• Lowers blood pressure
• Imbalance between Ang II and Ang1-7 can lead to hypertension
• Angiotensin 2 receptor antagonists can help reduce blood pressure

Cardiac Protection:

• Beneficial in ischemia reperfusion injury and heart failure
• Reduces heart muscle damage
• Supports cell viability
• Prevents structural changes in the heart

Implications in Kidney Function:

• Controls kidney blood flow
• Regulates kidney filtration rate
• Maintains fluid balance
• Important in chronic kidney disease (CKD)
• Reduced Ang1-7 can worsen kidney damage
• Can reduce inflammation and fibrosis

Therapeutic Potential and Future Directions:

• Growing interest in Ang1-7/Mas receptor axis treatments
• Development of Ang1-7 analogues
• Focus on receptor activation
• Research on ACE2 activity enhancement

Ongoing clinical studies for heart and kidney conditions