ANGIOTENSIN RECEPTOR Meaning and
Definition
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Angiotensin receptors are a group of cell membrane proteins that play a crucial role in the regulation of blood pressure and fluid balance in the body. These receptors are part of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which is a hormone system that helps maintain stable blood pressure levels.
There are two main types of angiotensin receptors, known as angiotensin type 1 (AT1) receptors and angiotensin type 2 (AT2) receptors. These receptors are found in various tissues and organs throughout the body, including the blood vessels, heart, kidneys, and adrenal glands.
When the hormone angiotensin II binds to the angiotensin type 1 receptors, it causes vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) and stimulates the release of another hormone called aldosterone, which promotes reabsorption of sodium and water in the kidneys. These effects ultimately lead to an increase in blood pressure.
On the other hand, the angiotensin type 2 receptors have relatively weaker effects compared to AT1 receptors. They are believed to counterbalance the actions of AT1 receptors, promoting vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) and inhibiting cell growth and inflammation.
Blockers or inhibitors of angiotensin receptors, such as angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), are commonly used medications to treat high blood pressure and certain heart conditions. By blocking the action of angiotensin II on the receptors, these drugs help relax blood vessels, lower blood pressure, and decrease the workload on the heart.
Etymology of ANGIOTENSIN RECEPTOR
The word "angiotensin" derives from the Greek words "angeion", meaning "vessel", and "tension", meaning "stretching", while "receptor" comes from the Latin verb "recipere", meaning "to receive". In the context of biology and medicine, "receptor" refers to a protein molecule on the surface of a cell that recognizes and binds to specific substances, such as hormones or neurotransmitters.
Therefore, the term "angiotensin receptor" refers to a protein receptor on the surface of certain cells that interacts with the hormone angiotensin. Angiotensin is involved in the regulation of blood pressure and fluid balance in the body and is produced by the natural enzymatic breakdown of a precursor molecule, angiotensinogen.
