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
British Dictionary definitions for angiotensin i
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 i (1 of 2)
angiotensin I
n.
A decapeptide that is the precursor to angiotensin II but is itself physiologically inactive.
Medical definitions for angiotensin i (2 of 2)
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 i
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.