Antagonists of the renin-angiotensin system and the prevention of obesity.

In addition to its role as an energy store, adipose tissue also acts as an endocrine organ, synthesizing and secreting hormones and cytokines. This review discusses angiotensin II (Ang-II), the biologically active component of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). Evidence suggests that a functioning RAS is present in adipose tissue. Animal studies have demonstrated that modifying the amount of Ang-II in the body (eg, using RAS knockout/transgenic animal models or the pharmacological treatment of animal models to prevent the formation or action of Ang-II) directly influences body weight and adiposity. In humans, body fat is correlated with levels of angiotensinogen, a precursor of Ang-II. Thus, the treatment of obesity could be improved through the use of substances that interfere with Ang-II.