Local renin-angiotensin systems in the genitourinary tract.

Local renin-angiotensin systems are common throughout the human body. Recent evidence supports the existence of such local renin-angiotensin systems in the penis, clitoris, bladder, ureter, internal anal sphincter, and urethral sphincter. Beyond its role in regulating blood pressure through its effects on vascular tone, sodium balance, and fluid homeostasis, angiotensin II serves a key role in affecting physiologic and pathophysiologic activities of the genitourinary tract. Just as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers are used for the treatment and prevention of heart disease and vascular disease, inhibition of excessive angiotensin II activity may be potentially useful for the treatment of urologic disorders.