Cocaine administration increases angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) expression and activity in the rat striatum and frontal cortex

► Some cocaine effects are related to angiotensin II in the brain. ► The main angiotensin II generating enzyme in the brain is angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE). ► Acute and subchronic cocaine increases ACE mRNA and activity in striatum and frontal cortex. ► Our results suggest the involvement of brain ACE in the Ang II related effects of cocaine administration.