Title:Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System: A Current Drug Target for the Management of Neuropathic Pain
Volume: 17
Issue: 2
Author(s): Arunachalam Muthuraman and Parneet Kaur
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Alzheimer disease, angiotensin converting enzyme, neurodegeneration, neuropathic pain, parkinson disease, reninangiotensin-
aldosterone system.
Abstract: Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS) is well established in renovascular and
cardiovascular functions. The modulators of this system are significantly used for regulating elevated
blood pressure in human and animals. Recently, it has also been documented to produce neurological
actions. The abnormalities of this system raise renin, angiotensin (AT), angiotensin converting enzyme
(ACE) activity, and aldosterone in circulation and nerve tissues. In the nervous system, abundant rise
of these components cause neuronal damage and neurodegeneration. ACE contributes to degradation
of β-amyloid in the brain, that is responsible for Alzheimer disease (AD). But, angiotensin converting
enzyme-2 (ACE-2) mediated release of angiotensin1-7 (AT1-7) peptide in nerve tissue has potential neuroprotective actions.
This review focuses on the current perspectives of the RAAS in neurodegeneration along with possible cellular and molecular
mechanisms. Also, we have discussed the current evidence of RAAS modulators in the management of neuropathic
pain in human and animals. Thus, we believe that, in the future, RAAS modulators may play a great role in the
management of neuropathic pain and other neurodegenerative disorders such as AD, Parkinson disease (PD) and
amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. But, more extensive clinical research is required for utilizing RAAS modulators in neurodegenerative
disorders.
