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

One medication already used to treat hypertension, losartan, inhibits the angiotensin receptor.

From Science Daily • Nov. 24, 2025

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

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

Renin acts on angiotensin to form ACE and angiotensin II, which then stimulates the release of aldosterone and ADH.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022