Comparative effects of ACE inhibition and angiotensin II receptor blockade in the prevention of renal damage.

Angiotensin II (Ang II) regulates a number of genes associated with progression of renal disease. The regulation of gene expression by Ang II occurs through specific receptors that are linked to changes in the activity of transcription factors within the nucleus of target cells. In particular, members of the nuclear factor-kappaB family of transcription factors are activated, which in turn fuels at least two autocrine reinforcing loops that amplify Ang II and tumor necrosis factor-alpha formation. Angiotensin converting enzymes (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin antagonists (AIIAs) differ both pharmacokinetically and pharmacodynamically in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Several ACE inhibitors (such as captopril, enalapril and lisinopril) are dialyzable, whereas all of the AIIAs studied are not. Dose titration may be necessary when administering ACE inhibitors to patients with renal failure (ESRD), but is rarely a consideration when AIIAs are used.