Does the renin-angiotensin system participate in regulation of human vasculogenesis and angiogenesis?
Several lines of evidence suggest that hypertension and angiogenesis may be related phenomena but a functional link remains elusive. Here, we propose that the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), in addition to its central role in arterial hypertension, also regulates blood vessel formation during normal development and cancer. This mechanistic hypothesis is based on reports of biochemical, genetic, clinical, and epidemiologic data reviewed herein. Species differences between the RAS of rodents and humans likely account for why such a fundamental role in angiogenesis went unrecognized for so long. If proven correct, this hypothesis carries many implications for the medical practices of cardiology, oncology, and neonatology.
Khakoo
Aarif Y
AY
The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
Sidman
Richard L
RL
Pasqualini
Renata
R
Arap
Wadih
W
D000014:Abnormalities, Drug-Induced; D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000633:toxicity; D000809:Angiotensins / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors; D000818:Animals; D001808:Blood Vessels / Q000196:embryology*; D018826:CD13 Antigens / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D051379:Mice; D018345:Mice, Knockout; D009389:Neovascularization, Pathologic / Q000209:etiology*; D018919:Neovascularization, Physiologic / Q000502:physiology*; D012084:Renin-Angiotensin System / Q000502:physiology*; D015398:Signal Transduction; D013792:Thalidomide / Q000633:toxicity; D042461:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / Q000502:physiology
D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors; D000809:Angiotensins; D042461:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A; D013792:Thalidomide; D018826:CD13 Antigens