Xu Chen

By Xiao C. Li, Ana Paula de Oliveira Leite, Xu Chen, Chunling Zhao, Xiaowen Zheng, Jianfeng Zhang and Jia L. Zhuo

The kidney plays a fundamental role in the physiological regulation of basal blood pressure and the development of hypertension. Although the mechanisms underlying hypertension are very complex, the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in the kidney, especially intratubular and intracellular RAS, undoubtedly plays a critical role in maintaining basal blood pressure homeostasis and the development of angiotensin II (ANG II)-dependent hypertension. In the proximal tubules, ANG II activates two G protein-coupled receptors, AT1 and AT2, to exert powerful effects to regulate proximal tubular sodium and fluid reabsorption by activating cell surface as well as intracellular AT1 receptors. Increased production and actions of ANG II in the proximal tubules may cause salt and fluid retention, impair the pressure-natriuresis response, and consequently increase blood pressure in hypertension. The objectives of this chapter are to critically review and discuss our current understanding of intratubular and intracellular RAS in the kidney, and their contributions to basal blood pressure homeostasis and the development of ANG II-dependent hypertension. The new knowledge will likely help uncover novel renal mechanisms of hypertension, and develop kidney- or proximal tubule-specific strategies or drugs to prevent and treat hypertension in humans.

Part of the book: Selected Chapters from the Renin-Angiotensin System