Genetic manipulation of the renin-angiotensin system.
The renin-angiotensin system is widely known for its importance in control of blood pressure, electrolyte homeostasis and volume regulation. Recently, renin-angiotensin system function was studied using homologous recombination in embryonic stem cells to manipulate the mouse genome. Angiotensinogen, angiotensin-converting enzyme and angiotensin II receptors were each eliminated in separate lines of mice. These null animals share similar phenotypes, such as a lowering of blood pressure, abnormal renal development, malfunction of the kidney and, unexpectedly, a decrease in hematocrit. In addition, angiotensin-converting enzyme null male mice sire far smaller litters than male wild-type mice. This suggests an unexplored role for angiotensin-converting enzyme in conception. Future studies with these and other genetically engineered mice lines will reveal novel physiological effects of angiotensin II.
Doan
T N
TN
Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
Gletsu
N
N
Cole
J
J
Bernstein
K E
KE
D000740:Anemia / Q000209:etiology; D000818:Animals; D001794:Blood Pressure / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D005298:Fertility / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D007668:Kidney / Q000254:growth & development; D007671:Kidney Concentrating Ability / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology; D008297:Male; D051379:Mice; D018345:Mice, Knockout; D008822:Mice, Transgenic; D012084:Renin-Angiotensin System / Q000235:genetics* / Q000502:physiology; D012727:Sex Characteristics