Renin-angiotensin system research: from molecules to the whole body

Hypertension is one of the most important risk factors and a leading cause of death from cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Based on numerous previous studies, hypertension is thought to be caused by the complex mutual interactions of genetic factors and environmental factors, such as excessive salt intake and stress. However, its detailed mechanisms are not yet clearly understood. The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is a key hormonal system in the pathogenesis of hypertension. New knowledge is still accruing on this cascade, even after more than 120 years since the discovery of renin. To clarify the molecular mechanisms of RAS in vivo, we created transgenic mice with chronic hypertension. These mice carry the human genes encoding renin, a hypertensive enzyme, and its substrate angiotensinogen. Hypotensive mice homozygous for a targeted disruption of the angiotensinogen gene were also created. This review presents our 47-year history of RAS research.