angiotensin

[ an-jee-oh-ten-sin ]
/ ˌæn dʒi oʊˈtɛn sɪn /

noun Biochemistry.

any of three oligopeptides occurring in plasma, an inactive form (angiotensin I) and two varieties (angiotensin II and angiotensin III) that elevate blood pressure and stimulate the adrenal cortex to secrete aldosterone.

Origin of angiotensin

1960–65; probably blend of angiotonin + hypertensin, earlier names for the substances

Words nearby angiotensin

angiostenosis, angiostrongylosis, angiostrongylus malaysiensis, angiostrophy, angiotelectasis, angiotensin, angiotensin amide, angiotensin i, angiotensin ii, angiotensin iii, angiotensin precursor

British Dictionary definitions for angiotensin

angiotensin
/ (ˌændʒɪəˈtɛnsɪn) /

noun

a peptide of physiological importance that is capable of causing constriction of blood vessels, which raises blood pressure

Word Origin for angiotensin

from angio- + tense 1 + -in

Medical definitions for angiotensin

angiotensin
[ ăn′jē-ō-tĕn′sĭn ]

n.

Any of a group of peptides with vasoconstrictive activity that function physiologically in controlling arterial pressure.

Scientific definitions for angiotensin

angiotensin
[ ăn′jē-ō-tĕn′sĭn ]

Any of three polypeptide hormones that function in the body in controlling arterial pressure. The most important is known as angiotensin II, a powerful vasoconstrictor that stimulates steroid production by the adrenal glands, reduces fluid loss from the kidneys, and also functions as a neurotransmitter. Angiotensin II is formed from inactive angiotensin I by the action of angiotensin-converting enzyme (or ACE). See also ACE inhibitor renin.