The Role of the Brain Renin-Angiotensin System in Neurodegenerative Disorders

Abstract

The primary function of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is to maintain fluid homeostasis and regulate blood pressure. Several components of the RAS, namely angiotensinogen, angiotensin converting enzyme, angiotensin II and their receptors, are found in the CNS suggesting the possibility of a localized RAS in the brain. Cognitively disabling neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease or vascular dementia show vascular lesions, and the brain RAS has been suggested to contribute to the disease process. The aim of this brief review is to summarize the current state of research in this field with emphasis on RAS-related alterations during the course of neurodegenerative disorders.

Attenuating effect of lisinopril and telmisartan in intracerebroventricular streptozotocin induced experimental dementia of Alzheimer’s disease type: possible involvement of PPAR-γ agonistic property

“…The RAS in the CNS may contribute to the disease process of CNS disorders including AD, probably through neuronal death and memory dysfunctions. 9,56,57 High levels of angiotensin II are reported to contribute to oxidative stress 58 and inflammation 59 which produce deleterious effects in the CNS. It has been noted that ACEIs may provide benefits in cognition beyond blood pressure control.…”

Importance of adiponectin activity in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease

“…Thus, it is worth noting that antihypertensive agents, such as angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, have been shown to be beneficial as therapy for AD,72 as prevention of atherosclerosis may enhance the integrity of the BBB. However, caution is necessary because treatment with ACE inhibitors upregulates APN expression in serum 73, 74.…”

Angiotensin converting enzyme and Alzheimer's disease

“…Так, выявлена положительная корреляция между увеличением в мозге нейрональной и периваскулярной активности АПФ и отложением Аb в виде сенильных бляшек в паренхиме и кровяных сосудах мозга, а также стадиями болезни [5,23,89,90,91]. Судя по данным посмертных исследований, уровень активности АПФ повышен в срединном гиппокампе, парагиппокампальной извилине, хвостатом ядре, входящем в состав полосатого тела и коре головного мозга [93][94][95].…”