Angiotensin II (Ang II) is an endogenous active peptide of the renin-angiotensin system. Angiotensin II is produced from angiotensin I through the removal of two C-terminal residues by angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), primarily within the lung. Angiotensin II binds to AT1 and AT2 receptors and plays a central role in the regulation of blood pressure and electrolyte homeostasis. Angiotensin II also mediates vasoconstriction, thirst, release of vasopressin and aldosterone, renal sodium reabsorption, fibrosis, inflammation, angiogenesis, vascular aging, and atherosclerosis.
