angiotensin

[ an-jee-oh-ten-sin ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. any of three oligopeptides occurring in plasma, an inactive form angiotensin I and two varieties angiotensin II and angiotensin III that elevate blood pressure and stimulate the adrenal cortex to secrete aldosterone.

angiotensin

/ ˌændʒɪəˈtɛnsɪn /

noun

1. a peptide of physiological importance that is capable of causing constriction of blood vessels, which raises blood pressure

angiotensin

/ ăn′jē-ō-tĕn′sĭn /

1. Any of three polypeptide hormones that function in the body in controlling arterial pressure. The most important is known as angiotensin II, a powerful vasoconstrictor that stimulates steroid production by the adrenal glands, reduces fluid loss from the kidneys, and also functions as a neurotransmitter. Angiotensin II is formed from inactive angiotensin I by the action of angiotensin-converting enzyme (or ACE ).
2. See also ACE inhibitor

Word History and Origins

Origin of angiotensin¹

1960–65; probably blend of angiotonin + hypertensin , earlier names for the substances

Word History and Origins

Origin of angiotensin¹

from angio- + tense ¹+ -in