The renin-angiotensin system and natriuretic peptides in obesity-associated hypertension.

Excessive accumulation of adipose tissue is associated with profound alterations in the cardiovascular system. including an increase in systemic blood pressure. It now appears clear that a central feature of obesity-associated hypertension is related to changes in sodium handling that may result from abnormalities in sympathetic nervous system activity, the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, natriuretic peptides, and kidney function. In this paper we review the role of these factors in the development of obesity-associated hypertension, thereby focusing on the potential role of adipose tissue in these alterations.