Title:Renin-Angiotensin System in Central Nervous System Diseases and its Interaction with COVID-19
Volume: 28
Issue: 28
Author(s): Katharina Lanza, Raphael Dias, Rafaela Martins dos Santos Oliveira, Luís Belotto, Aline Silva Miranda and Ana Cristina Simões e Silva*
Affiliation:
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Investigation, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG,Brazil
Keywords:
COVID-19, RAS, SARS-CoV-2, Central nervous system, Congenital infections, Cerebrovascular diseases,
Neurodegenerative diseases, Mood disorders.
Abstract:
Background: The Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) comprises a complex
molecular cascade with two counter-regulatory axes, the classical and the alternative. Angiotensin
II and Angiotensin-(1-7), the main peptides of the RAS, exert opposite effects
in multiple organs and systems, including the cardiovascular, renal, pulmonary, and immune
systems. Strong evidence supports the hypothesis of a local RAS in the Central
Nervous System (CNS) and its modulatory roles in neuroendocrinology and neurotransmission.
Objective: In this narrative review, we provide a comprehensive approach to experimental
and clinical data regarding RAS molecule expression and their possible roles in the
physiology and physiopathology of CNS diseases.
Methods: This non-systematic review summarizes evidence on RAS implications in
CNS diseases and their possible relationships with COVID-19.
Results: We divided the possible RAS mechanisms in distinct conditions during the lifespan,
approaching from congenital infections to neurodegenerative alterations, passing
through mood disorders and cerebrovascular diseases. We also gathered current evidence
about the possible effects of RAS in Covid-19, particularly in cases with neurological
manifestations.
Conclusion: Although there are limitations and controversies, the analysis of RAS mechanisms
in the CNS certainly represents an interesting field of research. However, further
investigation is necessary to support the noteworthy interactions and provide a better
comprehension of the cross-talk between RAS and the CNS. Investigations in this research
field may shed light on the novel therapeutic targets.
