angiotensin receptor activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Combining with angiotensin to initiate a change in cell activity. [GOC:ai]

Angiotensin receptor activity is a molecular function that describes the ability of a protein to bind and respond to angiotensin peptides, specifically angiotensin I and angiotensin II. These peptides are key regulators of blood pressure and fluid balance in the body. Angiotensin receptors are transmembrane proteins, meaning they span the cell membrane, with an extracellular domain that binds angiotensin peptides and an intracellular domain that initiates signaling cascades upon ligand binding.

There are two main types of angiotensin receptors:

* **Angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R):** This receptor is the primary mediator of angiotensin II's vasoconstrictive effects. Binding of angiotensin II to AT1R activates a signaling pathway that ultimately leads to increased vascular smooth muscle contraction, resulting in increased blood pressure. AT1R also plays a role in aldosterone secretion from the adrenal glands, which further contributes to fluid retention and increased blood pressure.
* **Angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R):** This receptor is less well-understood than AT1R, but it is thought to have opposing effects. Activation of AT2R is associated with vasodilation, decreased blood pressure, and potential protective effects against heart disease.

Angiotensin receptor activity is tightly regulated, both at the level of receptor expression and through the action of specific enzymes that modify the activity of angiotensin peptides. This complex regulation is crucial for maintaining blood pressure and fluid balance within a narrow physiological range. Dysregulation of angiotensin receptor activity can contribute to various cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, heart failure, and stroke.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (1)