Interactions between angiotensin-(1-7), kinins, and angiotensin II in kidney and blood vessels.

The heptapeptide angiotensin (Ang)-(1-7) is currently considered one of the biologically active end products of the renin-angiotensin system. The formation of Ang-(1-7) by pathways independent of Ang II generation, the selectivity of its actions, and its peculiar property of exhibiting effects that are partially opposite of those of the parent compound, Ang II, confer a unique biochemical and functional profile to this peptide. In this article, we will review novel aspects of the biological actions of Ang-(1-7), dealing with its interaction with Ang II and kinins, especially in the kidney and blood vessels.