[Angiotensin II receptor].

The peptide angiotensin(Ang) II exerts hemodynamic, and renal as well as cardiovascular structural effects. Multiple lines of evidence have suggested the existence of several Ang II receptor subtypes. Recent evidence has revealed that the functions of the AT1 and AT2 receptors are mutually antagonistic in various cells and tissues. The effect of AT1 blocker(ARB) may not be entirely due to the blockade of the AT1 receptor. When AT1 receptor is blocked and unbound Ang II may act on AT2 receptor and Ang 1-7 and Ang IV via AT4 receptor might be involved in the effects of ARB. If the AT2 receptor contributes to the pathogenesis and consequent remodeling of cardiovascular diseases in human, ARB may have some specific effects in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. A more extensive knowledge of the AT2 receptor could therefore contribute to the understanding of the clinical beneficial effects of ARB.