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

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

From Science Daily • Nov. 24, 2025

Angiotensin II constricts blood vessels, raising blood pressure, while angiotensin 1-7 relaxes blood vessels, lowering blood pressure.

From Science Daily • Mar. 28, 2024

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

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

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022