Evidence for a new angiotensin-(1-7) receptor subtype in the aorta of Sprague-Dawley rats

We have recently described, in the mouse aorta, the vasodilator effect of angiotensin-(1-7) (Ang-(1-7)) was mediated by activation of the Mas Ang-(1-7) receptor and that A-779 and D-Pro7-Ang-(1-7) act as Mas receptor antagonists. In this work we show pharmacological evidence for the existence of a different Ang-(1-7) receptor subtype mediating the vasodilator effect of Ang-(1-7) in the aorta from Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Ang-(1-7) induced an endothelium-dependent vasodilator effect in aortic rings from SD rats which was inhibited by removal of the endothelium and by L-NAME (100 microM) but not by indomethacin (10 microM). The Ang-(1-7) receptor antagonist D-Pro7-Ang-(1-7) (0.1 microM) abolished the vasodilator effect of the peptide. However, the other specific Ang-(1-7) receptor antagonist, A-779 in concentrations up to 10 microM, did not affect vasodilation induced by Ang-(1-7). The Ang II AT1 and AT2 receptors antagonists CV11974 (0.01 microM) and PD123319 (1 microM), respectively, the bradykinin B2 receptor antagonist HOE 140 (1 microM) and the inhibitor of ACE captopril (10 microM) did not change the effect of Ang-(1-7). Our results show that in the aorta of SD rats, the vasodilator effect of Ang-(1-7) is dependent on endothelium-derived nitric oxide. This effect is mediated by the activation of Ang-(1-7) receptors sensitive to D-Pro7-Ang-(1-7), but not to A-779, which suggests the existence of a different Ang-(1-7) receptor subtype.

Signaling crosstalk angiotensin II receptor subtypes and insulin

Insulin-resistant states are often associated with hypertension, and the accumulated data indicate that ARB decrease new-onset of diabetes with vasoprotective effects. Recent evidence suggests that activation of Ang II receptor subtypes could regulate insulin sensitivity at multiple sites of insulin signaling in various diabetic animal models and regulate vascular remodeling in concert with insulin in potentially distinct fashions. Moreover, the roles of Ang II receptor subtypes have been highlighted in insulin resistance in obesity, which is one of the major risk factors for the development of hypertension. More detailed analysis of the crosstalk of Ang II and insulin-mediated signaling in various tissues would provide further information to understand the clinical relevance of the effect of ARB on insulin resistance, thereby preventing cardiovascular events associated with insulin resistance.

A new role for the renin-angiotensin system in the rat periaqueductal gray matter: angiotensin receptor-mediated modulation of nociception

Renin-angiotensin (Ang) system (RAS) peptides injected into the periaqueductal gray matter (PAG) elicit antinociception. Saralasin blocks Ang II-elicited antinociception. Thus, it is possible that endogenous RAS peptides could participate on the modulation of nociception in the PAG. This possibility was tested here injecting, in the PAG, the specific Ang type 1 and type 2 receptor (AT1 receptor and AT(2 receptor) antagonists losartan and CGP42,112A, respectively, either alone or before Ang II. The effects of Ang II, losartan and CGP42,112A on nociception were measured using the tail flick test and the model of incision allodynia. Ang II increased tail-flick latency, an effect inhibited by both losartan and CGP42,112A. Ang II reduced incisional allodynia. Either losartan or CGP42,112A alone increased incision allodynia, suggesting that endogenous Ang II and/or an Ang-peptide participates in the control of allodynia by the PAG. AT1 and AT2 receptors were immunolocalized in neuronal cell bodies and processes in the ventrolateral PAG. Taken together, the antinociceptive effect of Ang II injection into the ventrolateral PAG, the increase of allodynia elicited by injecting either losartan or CGP42,112A alone in the PAG, and the presence of AT1 and AT2 receptors in neurons and neuronal processes in the same region, represent the first evidence that part of the tonic nociceptive control mediated by the PAG is carried out locally by endogenous Ang II and/or an Ang-peptide acting on AT1 and AT2 receptors.

Angiotensin II AT1and AT2Receptor Types Regulate Basal and Stress-Induced Adrenomedullary Catecholamine Production through Transcriptional Regulation of Tyrosine Hydroxylase

The sympathoadrenal response to stress includes a profound increase in adrenomedullary catecholamine synthesis driven by stimulation of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) transcription. We studied the role of Angiotensin II type 1 and 2 (AT(1) and AT(2)) receptors during isolation stress, and under basal conditions. Pretreatment of rats with the AT(1) receptor antagonist candesartan for 14 days prior to isolation completely prevented the stress-induced stimulation of catecholamine synthesis, decreasing tyrosine hydroxylase transcription by preventing the expression of the transcriptional factor, Fos-related antigen 2 (Fra-2). In addition, AT(1) receptor antagonism prevented the stress-induced increase in adrenomedullary AT(2) receptor binding and protein. Treatment of non-stressed, grouped animals under basal conditions with the AT(1) receptor or with PD 123319, an AT(2) receptor antagonist, decreased the adrenomedullary norepinephrine (NE) content and TH transcription. While AT(1) receptor antagonism decreased the levels of Fra-2 and the phosphorylated forms of cAMP responsive element binding protein (pCREB) and EKR2 (p-ERK2, phosphor-p42 MAP kinase), the AT(2) antagonist decreased Fra-2 with no change in the phosphorylation of CREB or EKR2. Our results demonstrate that both adrenomedullary AT(1) and AT(2) receptor types maintain and promote the adrenomedullary catecholamine synthesis and the transcriptional regulation of TH. Instead of opposing effects, however, our results indicate a complex synergistic regulation between the AT(1) and AT(2) receptor types.

The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and the kidney: effects on kidney disease

The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system regulates renal vasomotor activity, maintains optimal salt and water homeostasis, and controls tissue growth in the kidney. However, pathologic consequences can result from overactivity of this cascade, involving it in the pathophysiology of kidney disease. An activated renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system promotes both systemic and glomerular capillary hypertension, which can induce hemodynamic injury to the vascular endothelium and glomerulus. In addition, direct profibrotic and proinflammatory actions of angiotensin II and aldosterone may also promote kidney damage. The majority of the untoward effects associated with angiotensin II appear to be mediated through its binding to the angiotensin II type 1 receptor. Aldosterone can also induce renal injury by binding to its receptor in the kidney. An understanding of this system is important to appreciate that inhibitors of this cascade can reduce the progression of chronic kidney disease in proteinuric disease states. Pharmacologic agents that can interfere with this cascade include angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, and aldosterone receptor antagonists. This paper will provide an overview of the renin-angiotensin system, review its role in kidney disease, examine the renal effects of inhibition of this cascade in experimental animal models, and review clinical studies utilizing renin-angiotensin-aldosterone inhibitors in patients with diabetic and nondiabetic nephropathies.

Angiotensin receptor subtypes in thin and muscular juxtamedullary efferent arterioles of rat kidney

ANG II controls the vascular tone of pre- and postglomerular arterioles, and thereby glomerular filtration, through binding to either AT1A, AT1B, or AT2 receptors. AT1 receptors, which are coupled to intracellular Ca2+ signaling, have vasoconstricting effects, whereas AT2 receptors, whose signaling mechanism is unknown, induce vasodilatation. The angiotensin receptors have been characterized in afferent arterioles, which express the three types of receptors, but not in efferent arterioles. Two subpopulations of juxtamedullary efferent arterioles, muscular ones which terminate as vasa rectae and thin ones which terminate as peritubular capillaries, have been described. They display functional heterogeneity with regard to the ANG II response. To evaluate whether these differences are associated with differential expression of ANG II receptors, we examined the expression pattern of AT1A, AT1B, and AT2 receptor mRNAs by RT-PCR in these arterioles and studied the effect of valsartan, a specific AT1-receptor antagonist. Results indicate that muscular arterioles express AT1A, AT1B, and AT2 receptors, whereas thin arterioles only express the AT1A and AT2 types, and at a much lower level. Valsartan fully inhibited ANG II-induced increases in intracellular Ca2+ in both arteriolar types, but with different kinetics. In muscular arterioles, inhibition was monoexponential, whereas it displayed a marked positive cooperativity in thin arterioles. Finally, the apparent affinity for valsartan was higher in muscular than in thin arterioles. In conclusion, this study further documents the differences between muscular and thin efferent arterioles with regard to ANG II signalization in the rat kidney.

Angiotensin II dose-effect curves and Schild regression plots for characterization of different angiotensin II AT1 receptor antagonists in clinical pharmacology

The 'Schild regression' method is based on the principle of assessing the rightward shift of agonist dose-effect curves in the presence of different doses/concentrations of the respective receptor antagonist and presenting their relationship in a double log plot (i.e. the 'Schild plot'). The original method was developed to quantitatively characterize antagonistic drugs in experimental pharmacology. The method was adopted for evaluation of various AT1 antagonists in humans utilizing (human) angiotensin II as the agonist. Angiotensin II (Ang II) in continuous intravenous dose-incremental administration resulted in a clearly dose-dependent increase in blood pressure. All AT1 antagonists tested after oral administration yielded concentration-dependent rightward shifts of those Ang II dose-effect curves that were quantified as dose ratio (DR). DR minus 1 (DR-1) enabled the assessment of antagonist time kinetics in humans and a quantitatively precise determination of the half-life of antagonism in vivo. Schild plots allowed for assessment of apparent Ki doses indicative of a twofold rightward shift of the Ang II effect, thus providing the means for a rational comparison of the pharmacological potency of many of these compounds, where the Ki doses obtained at 24 h after administration were in the range of 'therapeutic' doses. Schild plots of a variety of substances showed linear relations independent of whether the blockade was deemed surmountable or not. It is therefore assumed that this property does not play a role at clinical doses/concentrations. Slopes slightly below 1 in the Schild plots of all tested antagonists point to a second 'counterregulatory' vasodilatory mechanism of action of Ang II which becomes apparent with AT1 blockade in conditions of high doses/concentrations of Ang II. Concentration vs. effect relationships indicate that if assessed at the same degree of direct vascular antagonism, other effects, such as increase in plasma renin activity, may be present to a varying degree with different antagonists. Thus for irbesartan, the potency to stimulate renin release was found to be at least twice that of candesartan. These observations should stimulate further research into the relevance of these dynamic differences between the various compounds. Thus, methodologies relying on fundamental principles of experimental pharmacology can provide the clinical pharmacologist with powerful tools to measure accurately degree of antagonism and time kinetics and to investigate the nature of receptor antagonism in humans.

Characterization of angiotensin-(1-7) receptor subtype in mesenteric arteries

Mesenteric arteries from male Sprague-Dawley rats were mounted in a pressurized myograph system. Ang-(1-7) concentration-dependent responses were determined in arteries preconstricted with endothelin-1 (10(-7)M). The receptor(s) mediating the Ang-(1-7) evoked dilation were investigated by pretreating the mesenteric arteries with specific antagonists of Ang-(1-7), AT(1) or AT(2) receptors. The effects of Ang-(3-8) and Ang-(3-7) were also determined. Ang-(1-7) caused a concentration-dependent dilation (EC(50): 0.95 nM) that was blocked by the selective Ang-(1-7) receptor antagonist D-[Ala(7)]-Ang-(1-7). Administration of a specific antagonist to the AT(2) receptor (PD123319) had no effect. On the other hand, losartan and CV-11974 attenuated the Ang-(1-7) effect. These results demonstrate that Ang-(1-7) elicits potent dilation of mesenteric resistance vessels mediated by a D-[Ala(7)]-Ang-(1-7) sensitive site that is also sensitive to losartan and CV-11974.

Angiotensin II receptor subtypes involved in the modulation of purinergic and adrenergic vasoconstrictions to periarterial electrical nerve stimulation in the canine splenic artery

Previous experiments demonstrated that periarterial electrical nerve stimulation induced a double-peaked vasoconstriction consisting of an initial transient, predominantly P2X-purinoceptor-mediated, constriction followed by a prolonged, mainly alpha1-adrenoceptor-mediated, response in the canine splenic artery. Angiotensin II at a concentration of 0.1 nM did not affect the basal vascular tone and vasoconstrictions to exogenously administered noradrenaline (0.03-3 nmol) and adenosine 5'-triphosphate (0.01-1 micromol), but it markedly potentiated the double-peaked responses to nerve stimulation. The potentiating effect of angiotensin II was inhibited by KRH-594 (10 nM), a selective angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist, but was not influenced by PD123319 (0.01-0.1 microM), a selective angiotensin II type 2 receptor antagonist. The results indicate that angiotensin II potentiates sympathetic purinergic and adrenergic vasoconstrictions through the prejunctional angiotensin II type 1 receptor subtype in the canine splenic artery.

Multiple angiotensin receptor subtypes in normal and tumor astrocytes in vitro

A role for neuropeptide receptors in glial tumorigenesis has recently been proposed. Although angiotensin receptors are known to mediate proliferative effects in many cell types, including brain astrocytes, the possible participation of these receptors in glial tumorigenesis remains unknown. In the present study, we have examined the expression of the molecularly defined angiotensin receptor subtypes AT(1a), AT(1b), and AT(2) in normal perinatal rat astrocytes and in a panel of tumor adult astrocytoma cells, using the reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Subsequently, we compared the mitogenic effect of the angiotensins A(1-8), A(2-8), A(3-8) and the heptapeptide "metabolite" A(1-7), on both normal and tumor astrocytes, measured in terms of the incorporation of tritiated thymidine. Our results indicate that AT(1a), AT(1b), and AT(2) angiotensin receptor mRNA is commonly expressed by many of these cells. Of notable exception is the astrocytoma U373 which was not found to express AT(1) or AT(2) mRNA. Chronic (24-h) incubation of cells with A(1-8) and A(1-7) lead to the induction of mitogenesis, even in the AT(1) and AT(2) mRNA negative astrocytoma cell line U373. Moreover, pharmacological analysis indicated that the observed mitogenic effects are not mediated by the AT(1) or AT(2) type receptors, but rather by a novel, specific A((1-7)) angiotensin receptor, since mitogenesis was shown to be partially blocked by the A(1-7) analogue D-Ala(7)A(1-7) and by the protease inhibitor orthophenanthroline (100 microM). Using Fura-2 spectrophotometry, we found that activation of this receptor does not alter intracellular calcium levels; however, preincubation with the protein kinase kinase inhibitor U0126 (10 microM) was found to inhibit these mitogenic effects partially. Overall, these results which demonstrate that normal and tumor astrocytes express a greater variety of angiotensin receptor subtypes than previously thought, support the idea that A(1-7) and its receptor signaling system may play an important role in shaping the astrocyte population during development. Moreover, the untimely expression of this A((1-7)) receptor may represent an important etiological component in the development of brain astrocytomas.

Dual effects of angiotensin II type 2 receptor on cardiovascular hypertrophy

Roles of angiotensin II (Ang II) in the regulation of cardiovascular system under normal and pathological condition have been well documented. Although two major subtypes of Ang II receptors, AT(1) and AT(2), are found in various proportions, the role and signaling mechanisms of AT(2) in the control of hypertrophic responses of cardiac ventricle and vasculature are not clear. Although earlier reports indicated that AT(2)'s functions are essentially growth suppression, an increasing number of recent reports indicate that AT(2) in cardiovascular tissues are often growth promoting. In some tissues AT(1) and AT(2) seem to share a common signaling pathways, at least in part. This review focuses on the accumulating evidence for the AT(2) function in the cardiovascular system.

New insights into actions of the renin-angiotensin system in the kidney: concentrating on the Ang II receptors and the newly described Ang-(1-7) and its receptor

Angiotensin II (Ang II), the physiologically active component of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), plays an important role in the regulation of the renal function. Based on their different pharmacologic and biochemical properties, 2 distinct subtypes of Ang II receptor have been defined and designated as type 1 (AT(1)) and type 2 (AT(2)) receptors. Most of the well-characterized actions of Ang II are now generally considered to result from stimulation of AT(1) receptors, whereas AT(2) receptors may exert opposite effects against AT(1) receptors. In the kidney, activation of the AT(2) receptor has been reported to regulate pressure-natriuresis and to stimulate the production of nitric oxide, bradykinin, or epoxyeicosatrienoic acids, which may cause vasodilation and modulate the vasoconstrictor action mediated by AT(1) receptors. In addition, recent studies have reported that Ang II exerts important effects on the normal renal development through both AT(1) and AT(2) receptors. Finally, other Ang fragments such as Ang-(1-7) are also involved in the actions of RAS in the kidney. In this review article, we will summarize results obtained from recent studies on the AT(1) and AT(2) receptor-mediated action of Ang II in the kidney. Renal actions of Ang-(1-7), which often oppose against those of Ang II, are also discussed.

Angiotensin II and calcium channels

Sixty years after its initial discovery, the octapeptide hormone angiotensin II (AngII) has proved to play numerous physiological roles that reach far beyond its initial description as a hypertensive factor. In spite of the host of target tissues that have been identified, only two major receptor subtypes, AT1 and AT2, are currently fully identified. The specificity of the effects of AngII relies upon numerous and complex intracellular signaling pathways that often mobilize calcium ions from intracellular stores or from the extracellular medium. Various types of calcium channels (store- or voltage-operated channels) endowed with distinct functional properties play a crucial role in these processes. The activity of these channels can be modulated by AngII in a positive and/or negative fashion, depending on the cell type under observation. This chapter reviews the main characteristics of AngII receptor subtypes and of the various calcium channels as well as the involvement of the multiple signal transduction mechanisms triggered by the hormone in the cell-specific modulation of the activity of these channels.

Transgenic mouse models of angiotensin receptor subtype function in the cardiovascular system

Angiotensin II mediates is biological actions via different subtypes of G protein-coupled receptors, termed AT(1) and AT(2) receptors. In rodents, two AT(1) receptors have been identified, AT(1A) and AT(1B), whereas in humans a single AT(1) receptor exists. Recently, a number of transgenic animal models have been generated which overexpress or lack functional angiotensin II receptor subtypes. This review focuses on the physiological significance of angiotensin II receptor subtype diversity in the cardiovascular system. In the mouse, AT(1A) receptors are the major regulators of cardiovascular homeostasis by determining vascular tone and natriuresis. In addition, AT(1A) receptors mediate growth-stimulating signals in vascular and cardiac myocytes. AT(1B) receptors participate in blood pressure regulation, and their functions become apparent when the AT(1A) receptor gene is deleted. Deletion of the mouse gene for the AT(2) receptor subtype led to hypersensitivity to pressor and antinatriuretic effects of angiotensin II in vivo, suggesting that the AT(2) receptor subtype counteracts some of the biological effects of AT(1) receptor signalling.

Angiotensin receptors--evolutionary overview and perspectives

The structure of the angiotensin molecule has been well preserved throughout the vertebrate scale with some amino acid variations. Specific angiotensin receptors (AT receptors) that mediate important physiological functions have been noted in a variety of tissues and species. Physiological and pharmacological characterization of AT receptors and, more recently, molecular cloning studies have elucidated the presence of AT receptor subtypes. Comparative studies suggest that an AT receptor subtype homologous to the mammalian type 1 receptor subtype (AT(1)), though pharmacologically distinct, is present in amphibians and birds, whereas AT receptors cloned from teleosts show low homology to both AT(1) and AT(2) receptor subtypes. Furthermore, receptors differing from both the AT(1)-homologue receptor and AT(2) receptor exist in some non-mammalian species. This may suggest that the prototype AT receptor evolved in primitive vertebrates and diverged to more than one type of AT receptor subtype during phylogeny. Furthermore, phenotypic modulation of AT receptors appears to occur during individual development/maturation.

Angiotensin signaling and receptor types in teleost fish

Despite advances characterizing mammalian angiotensin receptors, the phylogeny of fish angiotensin receptors remains unclear. Three aspects of receptor function: (1) the nature of the ligand; (2) the second messenger system activated by it; and (3) the pharmacological profile of specific antagonists, are examined to provide insight into the fish receptor. (1) The octapeptide sequences of fish and mammalian angiotensin II (ANG II) are nearly homologous, differing only at the first and fifth residues. Both peptides are almost equally efficacious and equipotent in heterologous systems and both contain key agonist switches Tyr(4) and Phe(8) necessary to activate mammalian AT(1)-type receptors. (2) ANG II increases inositol trisphosphate production, and elevates intracellular calcium in fish tissues consistent with activation of the AT(1) receptor. (3) However, the specific mammalian sartan-type AT(1) antagonists, e.g. losartan, produce inconsistent results in fish often acting as partial agonists, or inhibiting only at elevated concentrations. Because sartans and ANG II act at distinct sites on the AT(1) receptor, we propose that the teleost receptor is an AT(1)-type receptor that is fairly well conserved with respect to both the ANG binding site and coupling to the second messenger system, whereas the sartan binding site has been poorly conserved. The evidence for non-AT(1) type ANG II receptors in teleosts is limited. Mammalian AT(2) receptor antagonists are generally ineffective but may block at elevated, non-specific doses. Truncated ANG II fragments, ANG III and ANG IV, are often less potent than ANG II, however, their receptors have not been examined. Preliminary studies in trout indicate that angiotensin 1-7 may have a mild vasodilatory effect; additional work is needed to determine if non-AT(1)-type receptors are involved.

International union of pharmacology. XXIII. The angiotensin II receptors

The cardiovascular and other actions of angiotensin II (Ang II) are mediated by AT(1) and AT(2) receptors, which are seven transmembrane glycoproteins with 30% sequence similarity. Most species express a single autosomal AT(1) gene, but two related AT(1A) and AT(1B) receptor genes are expressed in rodents. AT(1) receptors are predominantly coupled to G(q/11), and signal through phospholipases A, C, D, inositol phosphates, calcium channels, and a variety of serine/threonine and tyrosine kinases. Many AT(1)-induced growth responses are mediated by transactivation of growth factor receptors. The receptor binding sites for agonist and nonpeptide antagonist ligands have been defined. The latter compounds are as effective as angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors in cardiovascular diseases but are better tolerated. The AT(2) receptor is expressed at high density during fetal development. It is much less abundant in adult tissues and is up-regulated in pathological conditions. Its signaling pathways include serine and tyrosine phosphatases, phospholipase A(2), nitric oxide, and cyclic guanosine monophosphate. The AT(2) receptor counteracts several of the growth responses initiated by the AT(1) and growth factor receptors. The AT(4) receptor specifically binds Ang IV (Ang 3-8), and is located in brain and kidney. Its signaling mechanisms are unknown, but it influences local blood flow and is associated with cognitive processes and sensory and motor functions. Although AT(1) receptors mediate most of the known actions of Ang II, the AT(2) receptor contributes to the regulation of blood pressure and renal function. The development of specific nonpeptide receptor antagonists has led to major advances in the physiology, pharmacology, and therapy of the renin-angiotensin system.

AT(1) and AT(2) receptors in the kidney: role in disease and treatment

All components of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) are present in the kidneys and constitute a functioning renal RAS. Angiotensin II (Ang II) receptor subtypes AT(1) and AT(2) have been identified in the afferent and efferent arterioles, glomeruli, mesangial cells, and proximal tubules. AT(1) receptors regulate vasoconstriction and sodium and water reabsorption, as well as promote cell growth, proliferation, and collagen matrix deposition. Recent animal studies are elucidating the role of the less well understood AT(2) receptors. The AT(2) receptors appear to counterbalance the AT(1) receptors by increasing the production of bradykinin, nitric oxide, and cyclic guanosine monophosphate-mediating vasodilation and by promoting cell differentiation, antiproliferation, and apoptosis. Ang II subtype 1 receptor blockers prevent Ang II activation of the AT(1) receptor while leaving the AT(2) receptor open to Ang II stimulation.

Molecular and cellular mechanisms of angiotensin II-mediated cardiovascular and renal diseases

A growing body of evidence supports the notion that angiotensin II (Ang II), the central product of the renin-angiotensin system, may play a central role not only in the etiology of hypertension but also in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular and renal diseases in humans. In this review, we focus on the role of Ang II in cardiovascular and renal diseases at the molecular and cellular levels and discuss up-to-date evidence concerning the in vitro and in vivo actions of Ang II and the pharmacological effects of angiotensin receptor antagonists in comparison with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. Ang II, via AT(1) receptor, directly causes cellular phenotypic changes and cell growth, regulates the gene expression of various bioactive substances (vasoactive hormones, growth factors, extracellular matrix components, cytokines, etc.), and activates multiple intracellular signaling cascades (mitogen-activated protein kinase cascades, tyrosine kinases, various transcription factors, etc.) in cardiac myocytes and fibroblasts, vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells, and renal mesangial cells. These actions are supposed to participate in the pathophysiology of cardiac hypertrophy and remodeling, heart failure, vascular thickening, atherosclerosis, and glomerulosclerosis. Furthermore, in vivo recent evidence suggest that the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases and activator protein-1 by Ang II may play the key role in cardiovascular and renal diseases. However, there are still unresolved questions and controversies on the mechanism of Ang II-mediated cardiovascular and renal diseases.

Emerging features of brain angiotensin receptors

In mammalian brain, angiotensin II AT1 and AT2 receptor subtypes are apparently expressed only in neurons and not in glia. AT1 and AT2 receptor subtypes are sometimes closely associated, but apparently expressed in different neurons. Brain AT1/AT2 interactions may occur in selective cases as inter-neuron cross talk. There are two AT1 isoforms in rodents. AT1A, which predominates, and AT1B. There are also important inter-species differences in receptor expression. Relative lack of amino acid conservation in the gerbil gAT1A receptor substantially decreases affinity for the AT1 antagonists. AT1 receptors are expressed in brain areas regulating autonomic and hormonal responses. AT1A receptors are heterogeneously regulated in a number of experimental conditions. In specific areas, AT1A receptors are not normally expressed, but are induced under influence of reproductive hormones in dopaminergic neurons. There are AT1 and AT2 receptors also in areas related to limbic, sensory and motor functions and their expression is developmentally regulated. A picture is emerging of widespread, neuronally localized, heterogeneously regulated, closely associated brain angiotensin receptor subtypes, modulating multiple functions including neuroendocrine and autonomic responses, stress, cerebrovascular flow, and perhaps brain maturation, neuronal plasticity, memory and behavior.

Functional evidence for an angiotensin IV receptor in rat resistance arteries

To distinguish between the different effects of angiotensin IV (Ang IV) on resistance artery vasoreactivity, freshly isolated rat mesenteric arteries were perfused and the changes in their diameter were recorded under various conditions. Ang IV exerted vasoconstrictor effects on both normal vessels and vessels that had been precontracted with phenylephrine or serotonin. This effect was abolished by losartan or candesartan cilexetil, two type 1 angiotensin receptor antagonists, but not by PD 123319, a type 2 angiotensin receptor antagonist. No tachyphylaxis was observed for the vasoconstrictor effect of Ang IV. N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, had no effect on Ang IV-induced vasoconstriction, whereas indomethacin, a cyclooxygenase inhibitor that was inactive by itself, influenced Ang IV-induced vasoconstriction, suggesting that Ang IV could stimulate the release of prostaglandins. Treatment of preconstricted vessels by candesartan cilexetil unraveled a vasodilator effect of Ang IV that was abolished by PD 123319, a type 2 angiotensin receptor antagonist. Unexpectedly, Ang IV still produced a vasoconstrictor effect on normal or preconstricted vessels after blockade of both type 1 and type 2 angiotensin receptors. Taken together, these results show that Ang IV influences resistance artery vasoreactivity via different mechanisms, one of which implicates a functionally active type 4 angiotensin receptor.

Interactions between AT1 and AT2 receptors in uterine arteries from pregnant ewes

This study was performed to investigate the roles of angiotensin receptors (AT1 and AT2) in the contractility of uterine arteries during normal pregnancy and after angiotensin II levels have been elevated. Pregnant ewes were given intravenous infusions of saline for 24 h (control) or angiotensin II (30 ng kg(-1) min(-1)) for 2 or 24 h. The contractile responses of uterine arterial rings to angiotensin II (4 microM) and antagonists were then examined in vitro. Most uterine arteries were relatively insensitive to the vasoconstrictor effects of angiotensin II. In rings from control ewes an angiotensin AT2 antagonist enhanced (P < 0.05) the contractile responses to angiotensin II, suggesting that angiotensin AT2 receptors inhibited the angiotensin AT1 receptor mediated contractions. Uterine arterial rings from ewes given intravenous infusions of angiotensin II displayed greater (P < 0.05) contractile responses to angiotensin II in vitro compared to rings from control ewes. This was in part due to down regulation of angiotensin AT2 receptors. Surprisingly, while performing these experiments a small number of ewes had uterine arteries which were "hyperreactive" to angiotensin II (contractile responses 6-fold greater). These ewes also had abnormal renin angiotensin systems and had some features which are characteristic of those seen in preeclampsia. The "hyperreactivity" of these arteries could only in part be explained by down regulation of angiotensin AT2 receptors. It is concluded that in normal pregnancy angiotensin AT2 receptors play a role in maintaining an adequate uterine blood flow for the fetus. When angiotensin II levels are elevated for a prolonged period this protective effect is lost partly because angiotensin AT1 receptors are down regulated.

Functional and binding studies of insurmountable antagonism of 606A, a novel AT1-receptor antagonist in rabbit tissues

Angiotensin AT1-receptor antagonists can be classified into two types, surmountable and insurmountable ones, based on the way they inhibit angiotensin II (AII)-induced vasoconstriction. To elucidate the causes of the difference, we studied how several antagonists associate with and dissociate from AT1-receptor sites by using rabbit adrenal cortical membrane. Four antagonists, 606A, EXP3174, CV11974, and E4177, showed equipotent competitive antagonism when they were added simultaneous with [125I]-AII in binding experiments. However, in AII-induced contraction studies with rabbit aorta, 606A, EXP3174, and CV11974 inhibited the contraction noncompetitively, whereas E4177 inhibited competitively. The longer the pretreatment period with EXP3174 or CV11974, the more effectively the antagonists suppressed AII-induced contraction. However, the suppression of contraction by 606A and E4177 changed little with the length of the pretreatment period. AII-induced contraction of 606A- or E4177-treated aorta recovered easily by washout, but that of CV11974-treated aorta was hard to recover by washout. These results obtained in the aorta were consistent with their characteristics observed in the AII binding study in the rabbit adrenal cortical membrane in cases of EXP3174 and CV11974. The differences between association rate with and dissociation rate from the AT1 receptor of E4177 and 606A were slight, in spite of the clear difference between their action in the contraction study. Because of the variations observed with the four compounds, mechanisms of insurmountable antagonism may not be uniform among AT1-receptor antagonists.

[Distribution and function of angiotensin II receptor subtypes--central nervous system]

AT1 receptors are predominant in the brain of monkeys and rabbits, while AT2 receptors are relatively abundant in the rat brain. In the human brain, all of the angiotensin II receptors in the forebrain, midbrain, pons, medulla and spinal cord are AT1 receptors, and AT2 receptors are found only in the cerebellum. Angiotensin II in the brain increases water and sodium intake, raises blood pressure, attenuates baro-reflex function, and increases vasopressin secretion. These cardiovascular actions of angiotensin II are exclusively mediated by AT1 receptors. Since the mice whose AT2 receptors are knocked out show the increase in blood pressure, the decrease in body temperature, and some alterations in behavior, these receptors may also play roles in the central nervous system.

[Angiotensin II receptor subtype in human adrenal glands]

Although adrenal gland is one of the major target organs of angiotensin II (Ang II), the pathophysiological significance of the its receptor subtype has not been elucidated. We demonstrated by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction with Southern blot analysis mRNA expression of both AT1 and AT2 in human adrenal tissues of normal adrenocortical tissues, aldosterone-producing adenoma, Cushing's syndrome, and pheochromocytoma. Ang II-induced aldosterone secretion in vitro was suppressed only by 50% in the presence of selective AT1 antagonist CV-11974, while AT2 agonist CGP-42112 increased aldosterone secretion by 55% over the control. Ang II or CGP-42112 did not affect cortisol secretion. In addition, Ang II could stimulate aldosterone secretion in AT1a knockout mice both in the presence and absence of CV-11974. These results suggest that non-AT1 receptor subtype(s) including AT2, as well as AT1, is involved in the stimulation of aldosterone secretion from human adrenals.

[Distribution and function of angiotensin receptor subtypes in cardiovascular system]

Angiotensin II (AII) participates in regulation of arterial blood pressure through its binding to AII receptors distributing among its target organs. In addition, locally produced AII appears to play a major role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular hypertrophy via mechanism not related to blood pressure. Two subtypes of AII receptors, AT1 and AT2, are recognized as distinct in both molecular and pharmacological basis. In adult, AT1 is a dominant subtype in cardiovascular system, and mediates virtually all the previously known actions of AII, including vasoconstriction, production of growth factors, hypertrophy of smooth muscle and cardiomyocyte, proliferation of smooth muscle and fibroblast, production of extracellular matrix and so on. Recently, upregulation of AT2 expression is revealed under certain pathological conditions, such as vascular injury, myocardial infarction, and heart failure. Biological significance of AT2 are still under investigation, however, countering actions against AT1 are often suggested.

Stimulation of different subtypes of angiotensin II receptors, AT1 and AT2 receptors, regulates STAT activation by negative crosstalk

Angiotensin II type 2 (AT2) receptor exerts an inhibitory action on cell growth. In the present study, we report that the stimulation of AT2 receptor in AT2 receptor cDNA-transfected rat adult vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) inhibited angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptor-mediated tyrosine phosphorylation of STAT (signal transducers and activators of transcription) 1alpha/beta, STAT2, and STAT3 without influence on Janus kinase. AT2 receptor activation also inhibited the tyrosine phosphorylation of STAT1alpha/beta induced by interferon-gamma, epidermal growth factor, and platelet-derived growth factor. Similar effects of AT2 receptor were observed in R3T3 fibroblast and mouse fetal VSMCs, which express endogenous AT2 receptor. Moreover, AT2 receptor inhibited serine phosphorylation of STAT1alpha and STAT3 via the inhibition of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation. Stimulation of AT2 receptor inhibited the binding of STATs with sis-inducing element in c-fos promoter, resulting in decreased c-fos expression. Taken together, our results suggest that AT2 receptor can crosstalk negatively with multiple families of growth receptors by inhibiting ERK and STAT activation.

The renin-angiotensin system and its receptors

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays an important role in blood pressure control and in water and salt homeostasis. It is involved in the pathophysiology of hypertension and structural alterations of the vasculature, kidney, and heart, including neointima formation, nephrosclerosis, postinfarction remodeling, and cardiac left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). Recently, an increased knowledge of the effector peptides of the RAS, their receptors, and their respective functions has led to a new principle of treatment for hypertension: the inhibition of angiotensin (Ang) II via angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or Ang II-receptor antagonists. In this review, the Ang receptors AT1 and AT2 and the potential roles of shorter angiotensin fragments, including Ang III(2-8), Ang IV(3-8), and Ang(1-7), are discussed.

Inhibition of the angiotensin II Type 1 receptor by TCV-116: quantitation by in vitro autoradiography

Inhibition of angiotensin (Ang) II type 1 (AT1) receptors in various target tissues of adult Sprague-Dawley rats was studied after single oral administration of TCV-116. The effects of TCV-116 on Ang II-receptor binding were assessed by quantitative in vitro autoradiography using 125I-[Sar1,Ile8]Ang II as a ligand. Four hours after the administration of TCV-116 (1 mg/kg), Ang II-receptor binding was markedly inhibited in the kidney (20% of control), adrenal cortex (27%), thoracic aorta (57%), heart (55%) and testis (76%) where AT1 receptors predominate. In the brain, orally administered TCV-116 produced a significant inhibition of binding both to the circumventricular organs (38%), which are devoid of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), and to the discrete regions within the BBB such as the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus (48%), nucleus of the solitary tract (60%). Twenty-four hours after the administration, Ang II-receptor binding had partly recovered to approximately 50-85% of control levels. In contrast, throughout the experimental period, Ang II-receptor binding was little affected in sites where Ang II type 2 (AT2) receptors predominate such as the adrenal medulla and the nucleus of the inferior olive. These data indicate that orally administered TCV-116 specifically binds to AT1 receptors both in peripheral tissues and the central nervous system.

Angiotensin II receptors

This review examines the recent progress in the field of angiotensin receptors. Multiplicity of these receptors was demonstrated initially on the basis of pharmacologic differences and then confirmed by expression cloning. AT1 receptors are predominant in the adult. They are widely distributed and mediate all of the known biologic effects of angiotensin II (AngII) through a variety of signal transduction systems, including activation of phospholipases C and A2, inhibition of adenylate cyclase, opening of calcium channels, and activation of tyrosine kinases. AT2 receptors are predominant in the fetus, but also present in adult tissues such as the adrenals, ovaries, uterus, and brain. AngII via these receptors exerts effects often opposed to those mediated by the AT1 receptors. Signal transduction implicates protein tyrosine phosphatase stimulation. AT1 and AT2 receptor expressions are regulated differently, and regulation is also tissue-specific. AT1 and AT2 receptors have been demonstrated in endothelial cells. Activation of AT1 receptors results in production of vasodilatory agents, nitric oxide, and prostacyclin (PGI2), which counteract the direct vasoconstrictor effects of Ang II on the adjacent smooth muscle cells. AT1 receptors on mesangial cells, smooth muscle cells, and fibroblasts are involved in cell growth and fibrosis, the latter being due both to an increase in the synthesis and a decrease in the degradation of the main components of the extracellular matrix. These AT1 receptor-dependent effects are for the most part indirect and mediated by growth factors, cytokines, and other peptides, including endothelin, transforming growth factor-beta1, and platelet-derived growth factor. AngII is metabolized into active fragments by deletion of the terminal amino acids on both ends. AngIII and AngIV are formed by successive deletions of aspartic acid and arginine at the N terminus. AngII (1-7) is obtained by deletion of phenylalanine at the C terminus. AngIII shares the same receptors and exerts the same effects as AngII. AngIV and AngII (1-7) recognize the AT1 and AT2 receptors with a lesser affinity than AngII and, in addition, possess their own receptors that mediate effects often opposed to those of AngII.

Receptors and their classification: focus on angiotensin II and the AT2 receptor

Angiotensin II mediates its effects through angiotensin receptors. The use of specific angiotensin receptor ligands and the cloning of these receptors allows their classification. So far, the AT1, AT2 and atypical angiotensin II receptors are recognised. The AT1 receptor is responsible for the classical effects of the renin-angiotensin system such as vasoconstriction, renal salt and water retention, central osmo-control and stimulation of cell growth. The function of the AT2 receptor is far from clear but this receptor appears to be important in fetal development, cell growth inhibition and differentiation processes. This review describes the angiotensin receptors and focuses on the possible functions of the AT2 receptor.

The receptor subtype mediating the action of angiotensin II on intracellular sodium in rat proximal tubules

1. An investigation was undertaken to explore the subtype of receptor involved in mediating the actions of angiotensin II on intracellular sodium content in suspensions of isolated proximal tubules of the rat. 2. Intracellular sodium content of the proximal tubules was measured with 23Na n.m.r. spectroscopy and under these conditions basal sodium content of the tubular cells was 69.04+/-1.73 nmol mg(-1) dry weight and the ATP levels, at 8.3+/-0.9 nmol ATP mg(-1) protein, were consistent with active respiration by the tissue. 3. In the presence of 10(-4) M PD123319, a selective non-peptide AT2 receptor antagonist, intracellular sodium levels rose from steady state by 30% (P < 0.01; n = 7) within 10 min of exposure to angiotensin II 10(-11) M. Over the subsequent 30 min steady state levels were re-established. Administration of angiotensin II 10(-11) M, in the presence of the selective AT1 receptor antagonist, losartan at either 10(-6) M (n = 5) or 10(-4) M (n = 6), was without effect on intracellular sodium levels, which were significantly different (P < 0.001) from those observed when PD 123319 was present. 4. Angiotensin II 10(-5) M, administered to the tubular suspension in the presence of 10(-4) M PD123319, decreased (P < 0.01, n = 6) intracellular sodium content by 16% in the first 5 min, but in the following 25 min returned to steady state levels. However, in the presence of losartan 10(-4) M, angiotensin II 10(-5) M had no effect on intracellular sodium content which was markedly different (P < 0.001) from that obtained in the presence of PD123319. 5. These findings show that at both the high and low concentrations of angiotensin II, its modulation of intracellular sodium levels within the proximal tubule cells is mediated via the activation of AT1 receptors. The intracellular mechanism underlying this effect remain to be investigated.

[Angiotensin II receptors: classification, structure, and signal transduction]

Angiotensin II (AngII), a circulating vasoactive peptide, interacts with specific membrane-bound receptors on the target tissues (vessels, kidneys and adrenal gland). Using new pharmacological tools and molecular cloning, these receptors have been classified in two types, called AT1 et AT2, whereas two subtypes, called AT1A et AT1B, have been identified for the rodent AT1 receptors, but not in humans. All these receptors present a seven hydrophobic transmembrane domain structure, which is classical for G protein coupled receptors. The interspecies molecular homology of these AngII receptors is high (> 90 per cent identity) within the same type of receptor, but is rather low (approximately 35 per cent identity) between the two types of receptors. The AT1 receptors are responsible for most of the AngII physiological actions and are coupled to a Gq protein, which activates a phospholipase C producing second messengers which activate protein kinases C and mobilize calcium intracellular stores. More recently, a strong interaction of this receptor has been demonstrated with the signalling pathways of the tyrosine kinases. The molecular mechanisms and the physiological importance of these interactions remain to be elucidated. The intracellular signalling (Gi coupling and tyrosine phosphatase activation) and the physiological actions (cellular differentiation, apoptosis) of the AT2 receptors are more controversial.

Functional interactions of L-162,313 with angiotensin II receptor subtypes and mutants

A nonpeptide ligand, L-162,313 (5,7-dimethyl-2-ethyl-3-[[4-[2(n-butyloxycarbonylsulfonamido)-5-is obutyl-3-thienyl]phenyl]methyl]imidazo[4,5,6]pyridine) was characterized on the angiotensin II receptors. This compound displaced [125I][Sar1]angiotensin II from rat angiotensin AT1A, AT1B or AT2 receptor individually expressed in COS-7 cells (Ki = 207 nM, 226 nM and 276 nM, respectively). In monkey kidney cells expressing angiotensin AT1A or AT1B receptors, it stimulated inositol phosphate accumulation, but the maximal response was 34.9 and 23.3%, respectively, of those of angiotensin II. Furthermore, an antagonist effect of L-162.313 was observed in response to angiotensin II. Single-point substitutions in the second and third transmembrane domains of the rat angiotensin AT1A receptor, which impaired the binding of losartan (2-n-butyl-4-chloro-5-hydroxymethyl-1[(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)biphenyl-4 -yl)methyl]imidazole), also affected the binding of L-162,313. Losartan and L-162,313 require some common structural determinants for non-peptide recognition on the angiotensin AT1 receptor. Furthermore, some of these substitutions, which impaired the inositol phosphate accumulation in response to angiotensin II, also impaired the response to L-162,313. Angiotensin II and L-162,313 require common critical residues for angiotensin AT1 receptor activation.

Characterization of the functional angiotensin II-receptor complex isoform in rat liver plasma membrane

In rat liver plasma membrane a single angiotensin II (Ang II) binding site (Kd of 3.71 +/- 0.33 nM and Bmax of 1143.7 +/- 83.9 fmol/mg protein) was identified using radioligand binding assay. Pharmacologically, this receptor match with the AT1 receptor subtypes in term of affinity for the selective antagonist Losartan, and probably with the AT1A receptor form in term of insensitivity for the antagonist PD123319. Nevertheless, using polyacrylamide gel isoelectric focusing, two 125I-Ang II binding sites migrating to pI 6.8 and 6.5 were found in these membrane preparations. Monophasic displacement of 125I-Ang II bound to isoform migrating at pI 6.8 clearly indicate that this isoform represents a functional Ang II-receptor complex. In contrast, the high concentrations of agonist and peptidic derivates of Ang necessary to displace 125I-Ang II bound to isoform migrating at pI 6.5 indicate that this atypical 125I-Ang II binding site represents a biologically nonfunctional Ang II binding molecule, presumably a nonspecific 125I-Ang II binding site.

The angiotensin II binding site on Mycoplasma hyorhynis is structurally distinct from mammalian AT1 and AT2 receptors

Angiotensin II (AngII) binding sites were characterized on rat pheochromocytoma cells (PC-12) which are known to express exclusively the type-2 (AT2) AngII receptor. Interestingly, we found that, on confluent PC-12 cells, only partial inhibition of 125I-AngII binding was achieved when cells were incubated with a saturating concentration of PD-123 319 (an AT2 selective ligand) suggesting the presence of an atypical binding site. In binding experiments, AngII exhibited high affinity for this atypical binding site with a dissociation constant (Kd) of 16 nM. Moreover, bacitracin potently inhibited PD-123 319-resistant 125I-AngII binding with an IC50 half-maximal inhibitory concentration of 44 microM. Enzyme immunoassay revealed that the cells were contaminated with Mycoplasma hyorhynis. Contaminated PC-12 cells were photolabeled with 125I-[p-benzoylPhe1]AngII and covalently labeled proteins were subjected to polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis followed by autoradiography. Under these conditions, two distinct labeled species of 140 kilodaltons (kDa) and 95 kDa were detected. Deglycosylation of the 140 kDa-labeled AT2 receptor with glycopeptidase-F (PNGase-F) resulted in a 35 kDa protein whereas the 95 kDa band was not affected by digestion with the endoglycosidase. Thus, our results show that the AngII binding site on M. hyorhynis is structurally distinct from mammalian AT1 and AT2 receptors.

Increased cardiac angiotensin II receptors in angiotensinogen-deficient mice

Two subtypes of angiotensin II (Ang II) receptors, type 1 (AT1-R) and type 2 (AT2-R), have been identified in the heart. However, little is known about the regulation of cardiac AT1-R and AT2-R by Ang II in vivo. Thus, we examined cardiac AT1-R and AT2-R in angiotensinogen-deficient (Atg-/-) mice that are hypotensive and lack circulating Ang II. Cardiac Ang II receptors (Ang II-R) were assessed by radioligand binding with 125I-[Sar1,Ile8]-Ang II in plasma membrane fractions. AT1-R and AT2-R were distinguished using their specific antagonists CV-11974 and PD123319, respectively. Total densities of Ang II-R and AT1-R density were significantly greater in the Atg-/- mice than Atg+/+ mice (31.1+/-2.8 versus 18.8+/-2.1, 28.7+/-3.0 versus 16.9+/-2.3 fmol/mg protein, P<.01, respectively), and AT2-R showed a slight but not significant increase in Atg-/- mice relative to Atg+/+ control animals. Kd values were not different between the two groups. In contrast to binding experiments, levels of Ang II type 1a receptor (AT1a-R) and AT2-R mRNA did not differ between Atg-/- and Atg+/+ mice. These results suggest that lack of Ang II may upregulate AT1-R through translational and/or posttranslational mechanisms in Atg-/- mice.

Expression of type 1 angiotensin II receptor subtypes and angiotensin II-induced calcium mobilization along the rat nephron

The localization of two type 1 angiotensin II receptor subtype mRNA, AT1A and AT1B, was determined by reverse transcription-PCR on microdissected glomeruli and nephron segments. The coupling sensitivity of these two receptor subtypes was evaluated by measuring variations in intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) elicited by angiotensin II (Ang II) in structures expressing either AT1A or AT1B mRNA, using Fura-2 fluorescence. The highest expression of AT1 mRNA was found in glomerulus, proximal tubule, and thick ascending limb. In glomerulus, AT1A and AT1B mRNA were similarly expressed, whereas in all nephron segments AT1A mRNA expression was dominant (approximately 84%). The increase in [Ca2+]i elicited by 10(-7) mol/L Ang II was highest in proximal segments (delta [Ca2+]i is approximately equivalent to 300 to 400 nmol/L) and thick ascending limb (delta [Ca2+]i is approximately equivalent to 200 nmol/L). In glomerulus and collecting duct, the response was lower (delta < 100 nmol/L). The median effective concentrations for Ang II were of the same order of magnitude in glomerulus (12.2 nmol/L), in which both AT1A and AT1B are expressed, and in cortical thick ascending limb (10.3 nmol/ L), in which AT1A is almost exclusively expressed. The Ang II-induced calcium responses were totally abolished by the AT1 receptor antagonist losartan (1 mumol/L) but not by the AT2 antagonist PD 123319 (1 mumol/L). In the absence of external Ca2+, the peak phase of the response induced by 10(-7) mol/L Ang II was reduced and shortened, suggesting that a part of the [Ca2+]i increase originated from the mobilization of the intracellular Ca2+ pool. In conclusion, these results demonstrate that in the rat kidney: (1) AT1A is the predominant AT1 receptor subtype expressed in the nephron segments, (2) glomerulus is the only structure with a relatively high AT1B mRNA content, and (3) AT1A and AT1B receptor subtypes do not differ in their efficiency for the activation of calcium second-messenger system.

Opposite feedback control of renin and aldosterone biosynthesis in the adrenal cortex by angiotensin II AT1-subtype receptors

The aims of this study were to identify whether tissue renin is regulated by a negative-feedback mechanism produced by locally generated angiotensin (Ang II) in the adrenal cortex and to detect the pathway of Ang II modulation. For this purpose, in 36 12-week old, salt-restricted, nephrectomized Sprague-Dawley rats, we studied the effects of the Ang II AT1-subtype receptor antagonist losartan and of the Ang II AT2-subtype receptor antagonist PD123319 on renin mRNA and activity, aldosterone synthase mRNA, and AT1a-, AT1b-, and AT2-subtype receptor expression in the adrenal cortex. Ten additional rats, kept on a regular diet and then nephrectomized, were also studied. In salt-restricted, nephrectomized rats, losartan administration caused increases of adrenal renin mRNA (P<.05) and activity (P<.05) and a concomitant reduction of aldosterone synthase mRNA (P<.05). In addition, after losartan AT1b, receptor mRNA was reduced (P<.05), AT1a receptor mRNA was unchanged, and AT2 mRNA was increased (P<.05). PD123319 did not significantly modify any of these parameters. In conclusion, in salt-restricted, nephrectomized rats, selective antagonism of AT1-subtype receptors stimulates the expression and the activity of renin in the adrenal cortex. This observation demonstrates that Ang II locally formed in the adrenal cortex exerts a modulatory negative-feedback action on adrenal renin biosynthesis independent of the influence of the circulating renin-Ang system; this action is largely mediated through the AT1b-subtype receptors.

Growth-dependent induction of angiotensin II type 2 receptor in rat mesangial cells

Angiotensin II acts on at least two receptor subtypes, AT1 and AT2. Although the physiological role of the AT2 receptor is still poorly defined, it may be implicated in inhibition of cell growth, vasorelaxation, and apoptosis. In the present study, to investigate the role of the AT2 receptor in the kidney and its implication in hypertensive states, we examined its expression using cultured mesangial cells (MC) from normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY) and from stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRSP). Receptor binding assays were performed using a nonselective ligand, [Sar1,Ile8]angiotensin II, or AT2-selective CGP42112A. Binding assays revealed that MC from WKY exhibited both AT1 and AT2 receptors, the ratio of which was confluence-dependent. In contrast, MC from SHRSP, whose proliferation activity was much higher than those from WKY, showed only the AT1 subtype. In receptor binding and Northern blot analyses, expression of the AT2 receptor of WKY-MC was low in the growing state but significantly induced upon confluence to become abundant in the post-confluent state, whereas that of SHRSP-MC was undetectable in either state. Gene expressions of AT1A and AT1B receptors were not significantly altered in either strain during the time in culture. These results indicate that the mesangial AT2-receptor expression is growth-dependent and suggest a role in the inhibition of MC growth in WKY. Much lower expression of the AT2 receptor in MC from SHRSP may suggest involvement in their higher proliferation activity and possibly in consequent renal disorders.

Angiotensin II stimulates expression of the chemokine RANTES in rat glomerular endothelial cells. Role of the angiotensin type 2 receptor

Glomerular influx of monocytes/macrophages (M/M) occurs in many immune- and non-immune-mediated renal diseases. The mechanisms targeting M/M into the glomerulus are incompletely understood, but may involve stimulated expression of chemokines. We investigated whether angiotensin II (ANG II) induces the chemokine RANTES in cultured glomerular endothelial cells of the rat and in vivo. ANG II stimulated mRNA and protein expression of RANTES in cultured glomerular endothelial cells. The ANG II-induced RANTES protein was chemotactic for human monocytes. Surprisingly, the ANG II-stimulated RANTES expression was transduced by AT2 receptors because the AT2 receptor antagonists PD 123177 and CGP-42112A, but not an AT1 receptor blocker, abolished the induced RANTES synthesis. Intraperitoneal infusion of ANG II (500 ng/h) into naive rats for 4 d significantly stimulated glomerular RANTES mRNA and protein expression compared with solvent-infused controls. Immunohistochemistry revealed induction of RANTES protein mainly in glomerular endothelial cells and small capillaries. Moreover, ANG II- infused animals exhibited an increase in glomerular ED-1- positive cells compared with controls. Oral treatment with PD 123177 (50 mg/liter drinking water) attenuated the glomerular M/M influx without normalizing the slightly elevated systolic blood pressure caused by ANG II infusion, suggesting that the effects on blood pressure and RANTES induction can be separated. We conclude that the vasoactive peptide ANG II may play an important role in glomerular chemotaxis of M/M through local induction of the chemokine RANTES. The observation that the ANG II- mediated induction of RANTES is transduced by AT2 receptors may influence the decision as to which substances might be used for the therapeutic interference with the activity of the renin-angiotensin system.

Angiotensin receptor subtypes in the uterine artery during ovine pregnancy

This study was undertaken to determine if changes in receptor density or affinity could account for the reduced vascular sensitivity to angiotensin II seen during pregnancy. Angiotensin receptor subtypes in the uterine arteries of non-pregnant, pregnant and postpartum ewes were investigated using saturation and competition receptor binding techniques with the specific receptor antagonists, losartan (DuP-753) and PD-123319 (S)1-[[4-(dimethylamino)-3-methylphenyl]-methyl]-5-(diphenylacetyl )-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-1H-imidazo(4,5-c)pyridine-6-carboxylic acid, ditrifluoroacetate, monohydrate). Receptor density and affinity of total angiotensin receptors, as well as the angiotensin AT1 and AT2 receptor subtypes in uterine arteries were compared with those in the mesenteric artery and aorta. The uterine artery contains both AT1 and AT2 receptor subtypes, whereas the mesenteric artery and aorta contain primarily the AT1 receptor subtype. In uterine arteries from pregnant sheep, angiotensin receptor density was increased because AT2 receptors were increased. AT1 receptor density was not altered. This change was not seen in the aorta. In the uterine artery, receptor affinity for [Sar1,Ile8]angiotensin II decreased in mid-gestation (IC50 7.7 +/- 1.2 x 10(-9) M) compared with non-pregnant ewes (IC50 3.0 +/- 0.6 x 10(-9) M, P = 0.006), and there was decreased affinity of angiotensin AT1 receptors for losartan during pregnancy (IC50 2.8 +/- 1.0 x 10(-4) M) compared with non-pregnant ewes (IC50 2.2 +/- 1.3 x 10(-6) M, P = 0.025). Our results show changes in the density and affinity of the angiotensin receptor subtypes in the uterine artery which could explain its reduced responsiveness to circulating angiotensin II during pregnancy.

Characterization of angiotensin receptors on human skin fibroblasts

Angiotensin II is involved in blood pressure regulation, cell growth and angioneogenesis. The angiotensin receptors which mediate the intracellular effects of angiotensin II are expressed in numerous tissues and cell types. We studied the expression of angiotensin II receptors in cultured human skin fibroblasts derived from a skin biopsy. Angiotensin II binding characteristics were analyzed by radioligand binding assays. The DNA synthesis was assessed by [H]thymidine incorporation assays. Intracellular calcium concentrations were measured by fura-2 spectrofluorometry, and mRNA expression levels were analyzed by northern blot technology. Two distinct angiotensin receptors were detectable on human skin fibroblasts: the AT1 receptor with Kd = 1.0 +/- 0.7 nmol/l and Bmax = 17.9 +/- 0.9 fmol/mg protein, and an angiotensin(1-7) binding site with Kd = 26 +/- 6.6 nmol/l and Bmax = 80.4 +/- 3.5 fmol/mg protein, as shown by competition binding assays using selective angiotensin II receptor antagonists and the heptapeptide angiotensin(1-7). The angiotensin AT1 receptor mRNA was substantially expressed in human skin fibroblasts and was subjected to homologous downregulation. In human skin fibroblasts angiotensin II caused a profound increase in intracellular calcium which was blocked by angiotensin AT1 receptor antagonists such as Exp-3174. Furthermore, both angiotension II and angiotensin(1-7) led to increased DNA synthesis in human skin fibroblasts. In conclusion, cultured human skin fibroblasts express angiotensin AT1 receptors and a putatively new angiotensin receptor activated by angiotensin(1-7), both coupled to signaling pathways involved in DNA synthesis.

Regulation of type 1 angiotensin II receptor and its subtype gene expression in kidney by sodium loading and angiotensin II infusion

OBJECTIVE

To test the hypothesis that a high salt intake decreases gene expression of both type 1 angiotensin receptor subtypes 1A and 1B (AT1A and AT1B) and diminishes AT1 receptor density in the kidney through an angiotensin II (Ang II)-independent mechanism.

METHODS

Wistar rats were divided into four groups and fed a normal-sodium diet (0.5%, NSD), NSD + 25 ng/kg per min Ang II infusion, a high-sodium diet (4%, HSD), or HSD + Ang II infusion for 2 weeks. Quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction was used for analysis of changes in renal AT1A and AT1B messenger RNA (mRNA) levels. Radioligand binding assays were used for measurement of Ang II receptor density.

RESULTS

Body weight and mean arterial pressure did not differ among the four groups. Renal AT1A and AT1B mRNA levels were decreased significantly in NSD + Ang II and HSD + Ang II groups compared with those in the NSD group. Renal AT1B mRNA was also decreased significantly in HSD versus NSD. The renal AT1 receptor density was decreased significantly in NSD + Ang II and HSD + Ang II, but was not changed in HSD compared with NSD.

CONCLUSION

A high salt intake downregulates the AT1B mRNA expression but does not change the AT1A mRNA expression and AT1 receptor density in the kidney, suggesting that differential regulation occurs in the kidney. Infusion of a nonpressor dose of Ang II, either alone or in conjunction with a high salt intake, downregulates the AT1 receptor and its subtype gene expression in the kidney, suggesting that Ang II regulates these responses through a negative feedback mechanism.

The neuronal role of angiotensin II in thirst, sodium appetite, cognition and memory

Within the past two decades, a great deal has been learnt about the renin-angiotensin system in the brain. The renin-angiotensin system is one of the best-studied enzyme-neuropeptide systems in the brain. The diversity of localization of this peptide throughout the brain has implied a variety of potential functions. Besides its classical role in the regulation of blood pressure and body-fluid homeostasis, it has more subtle functions involving complex mechanisms such as learning and memory. The profound effects on behaviour produced by angiotensin are of broad interest to neuroscientists. The mechanisms of action differ depending on whether angiotensin is locally synthesized and whether regulation is governed by neural or metabolic inputs impinging on the neurones. Its central action is mediated through peptidergic receptors present on neurones. The description of the receptor subtypes AT1 and AT2 for angiotensin II and the development of non-peptidic specific angiotensin receptor subtype antagonists have opened a new area in this field of research. The AT1 site, which preferentially binds to angiotensin II and angiotensin III, appears to mediate the classical angiotensin functions concerned with maintenance of blood pressure and body-fluid control. In addition, most of the behavioural effects described so far are linked with AT1, although so-called psychotropic effects are presumed to be mediated by receptor systems other than the known specific angiotensin receptors. In fact, evidence for the existence of such receptors with high-affinity binding has been reported. The central action of angiotensin II mediated by AT2 is as yet unclear. Most reports concerning this receptor subtype suggest a role in differentiation and development, since the number of binding sites is higher in fetal and young rats than in adults. Furthermore, the neuronal effect of angiotensin II in the inferior olivary nucleus which is blocked specifically by AT2 antagonists suggests an involvement in motor control. Over the next few years we should find answers to many of the questions currently unanswered about angiotensin function and, given the rapid progress in research on this neuropeptide, it may serve as a model for the action of peptides on neuronal function in general.