Transgenic rats, termed TGR(mREN2)27, have been generated carrying the mouse ren-2
renin gene. As intended the gene was expressed highly within the adrenal gland offering
the opportunity to study the intraadrenal renin-angiotensin system in vivo. Concomittantly with increased adrenal renin activity, the prodction of adrenocortical
steroids are elevated and the regulation of aldosterone production is impaired in
TCR(mREN2)27. Furthermore, the transgenic rats develop severe sodium dependent hypertension.
Since kidney and plasma renin concentrations and plasma angiotensins are low in the
transgenic model, those factors cannot account for the altered regulation of aldosterone
production. Instead the experiments with TGR(mREN2)27 demonstrate the functional role
of the local adrenal renin-angiotensin system.
Key words
Transgenic Rats - Aldosterone - Hypertension - Renin Secretion - Renin-Angiotensin
System
