| Abstract | 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. |
| Authors | Richard S Weisinger, Denovan P Begg, Markandeya Jois
(Affiliation: La Trobe University, School of Psychological Science, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia. r.weisinger at latrobe.edu.au)
|
| Journal | Current opinion in investigational drugs (London, England : 2000)
(Curr Opin Investig Drugs)
Vol. 10
Issue 10
Pg. 1069-77
(Oct 2009)
ISSN: 2040-3429 [Electronic] England |
| PMID | 19777395
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)
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