Angiotensin-(1-7) as an antihypertensive, antifibrotic target.

Over the past two decades, enormous progress has been made in understanding the possible physiological significance of alternate renin-angiotensin system processing pathways and angiotensin fragments, such as angiotensin (Ang)-(1-7). Evidence from in vivo and ex vivo studies in humans and various animal models suggests a possible role for this heptapeptide in blood pressure regulation, although the mechanisms involved are most likely indirect, involving some combination of bradykinin and nitric oxide signaling. In contrast, a growing body of in vivo and in vitro evidence supports direct cardioprotective (antihypertrophic, antifibrotic) actions of Ang-(1-7). Here, we review key studies investigating the blood pressure and tissue-protective roles of Ang-(1-7), and summarize potential genomic and pharmacologic therapeutic strategies previously advanced by our group and others.