Angiotensin II is an effector peptide of the renin angiotensin system. Angiotensin II which regulates cellular growth in response to developmental, physiological, and pathological processes has two main receptor subtypes which are the AT1 and AT2 receptor. It is well established that angiotensin II has an important role in regulating cardiovascular hemodynamics and structure. Most of the known effects of angiotensin II in cardiovascular system are attributable to the AT1 receptor, and it has been a drug target in cardiovascular disease for many years. On the other hand, less was known about the AT2 receptor and it remained only an academic interest. This circumstance has changed with the synthesis of a first non-peptide AT2 receptor agonist, compound 21. The studies using compound 21 indicated tissue protective effects and functional improvement after myocardial infarction. Then, the research has continued to reveal AT2 receptor mediated effects in cardiovascular system. Herein, we will discuss the role of the peptide (CGP42112A, novokinin) and the non-peptide (compound 21) AT2 receptor agonists in the cardiovascular system.
Key Words: Angiotensin II; AT2 Agonist; Cardiovascular System.
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