Physiopathology of the renin-angiotensin system in the ovary.

The present review confirms the existence of the so-called "ovarian-derived prorenin-angiotensin cascade". It also describes the physiopathology of the system and, consequently, its role in the genesis of phenomena concerning reproductive function such as ovulation, steroid synthesis and folliculogenesis. Moreover, the "ovarian-derived prorenin-angiotensin cascade" appears to play an important role in the aetiopathogenesis of diseases such as ovarian tumours, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and ectopic pregnancy.