AT1 Angiotensin receptors - vascular and renal epithelial pathways for blood pressure regulation

Angiotensin type 1 (AT1) receptors are key effector elements of the renin-angiotensin system, mediating virtually all of the classical physiological actions of angiotensin II. Pharmacological blockade of the AT1 receptor effectively lowers blood pressure in a substantial proportion of patients with hypertension, indicating the pivotal role of these receptors in human hypertension. AT1 receptors are expressed in many different organ systems where they have myriad cellular actions. However, several lines of evidence have suggested that direct actions of AT1 receptors in kidney have a major role in regulation of blood pressure and in the pathogenesis of hypertension. Here we review recent studies suggesting that renal epithelium and vasculature may be key cellular targets, where AT1 receptor activation has powerful physiological impact. We will also examine novel regulatory mechanisms by peptides associated with the C-terminus of the AT1 receptor.