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

To model hypertension in mice, the team used the hormone angiotensin, which raises blood pressure in a manner similar to the condition in humans.

From Science Daily • Nov. 24, 2025

"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

When angiotensinogen is cleaved by renin, it produces angiotensin I, which is then converted into angiotensin II in the lungs.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

Aldosterone and ADH are then stimulated to be released from angiotensin II.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022