ABSTRACT
Various recent studies have enhanced our understanding of the intrarenal renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and of the intriguing mechanisms involved in the intrarenal regulation of the angiotensin (Ang) peptides. The multiple components of the RAS present in the kidney allow it to operate in autocrine and intracrine fashion rather independently of the circulating endocrine system. Recent developments have raised our awareness of distinct mechanisms regulating intratubular and interstitial, as well as intracellular, RAS. In this chapter, we briefly review our current understanding of the intrarenal RAS and discuss how inappropriate activation of the intrarenal RAS compromises the kidney’s capability to maintain an optimum sodium and fluid balance at normal arterial pressures, thus setting the stage for the development of hypertension.
