Angiotensin-(1-7): Role in the Endocrine System

Abstract

Currently, angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)] is recognized as the main peptide on counteracting the angiotensin II (Ang II) effects in the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), with crucial metabolic relevance. While Ang II is increased in endocrine disorders such as obesity, diabetes, and dyslipidemia, important studies showed that augmented activation of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2)/Ang-(1-7)/Mas axis is able to revert hormonal dysregulation improving insulin resistance, lipid metabolism and modulating insulin actions. The present chapter recapitulates new data indicating that the Ang-(1-7) is one of the most promising hormones on regulating endocrine diseases.