Systematic-Narrative Hybrid Literature Review: Crosstalk between Gastrointestinal Renin–Angiotensin and Dopaminergic Systems in the Regulation of Intestinal Permeability by Tight Junctions

Abstract

In the first part of this article, the role of intestinal epithelial tight junctions (TJs), together with gastrointestinal dopaminergic and renin–angiotensin systems, are narratively reviewed to provide sufficient background. In the second part, the current experimental data on the interplay between gastrointestinal (GI) dopaminergic and renin–angiotensin systems in the regulation of intestinal epithelial permeability are reviewed in a systematic manner using the PRISMA methodology. Experimental data confirmed the copresence of DOPA decarboxylase (DDC) and angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in human and rodent enterocytes. The intestinal barrier structure and integrity can be altered by angiotensin (1-7) and dopamine (DA). Both renin–angiotensin and dopaminergic systems influence intestinal Na+/K+-ATPase activity, thus maintaining electrolyte and nutritional homeostasis. The colocalization of B0AT1 and ACE2 indicates the direct role of the renin–angiotensin system in amino acid absorption. Yet, more studies are needed to thoroughly define the structural and functional interaction between TJ-associated proteins and GI renin–angiotensin and dopaminergic systems.