Extrarenal renin has been found in a number of tissues. All the components of the
renin-angiotensin system have been identified in the adrenal cortex. Adrenal renin
has been found in many animal species, including the human, but most of the studies
have been carried out in the rat. Renin is present and synthesized mainly in the zona
glomerulosa cells. Renin production is under physiological control and can be influenced
by ACTH, changes in electrolyte balance and the genetic background of the rat. The
evidence suggests that adrenal renin plays a role as a local hormone in regulating
aldosterone production by the zona glomerulosa cells.
Key words
Aldosterone - Potassium - AT1 Receptor - Rat - Autocrine - Paracrine - Transgenic
