angiotensin

American  

[an-jee-oh-ten-sin] / ˌæn dʒi oʊˈtɛn sɪn /

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.

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angiotensin British  

/ ˌændʒɪəˈtɛnsɪn /

noun

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

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angiotensin Scientific  

/ 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 renin

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Etymology

Origin of angiotensin

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

Example Sentences

"In some human studies, the data suggest that the angiotensin receptor inhibitors may be more beneficial to cognitive health than other drugs that lower blood pressure," Dr. Iadecola said.

From Science Daily • Nov. 24, 2025

They block the formation of the hormone angiotensin II, which plays a central role in the development of high blood pressure.

From Science Daily • Jan. 31, 2024

By feeding rats the engineered Lactobacillus paracasei bacterium as a probiotic, researchers were able to introduce human ACE2 in their guts, which specifically reduced their gut angiotensin II and, in turn, lowered their blood pressure.

From Science Daily • Oct. 24, 2023

Renin acts on angiotensin to directly stimulate the release of aldosterone and ADH.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

Renin, which is secreted by part of the juxtaglomerular complex, acts on angiotensin to form angiotensin I, which is then converted to angiotensin II by ACE.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022