Neural Regeneration Research ›› 2021, Vol. 16 ›› Issue (3): 504-505.doi: 10.4103/1673-5374.293144

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Brain angiotensin II in dopaminergic imbalance-derived pathologies: neuroinflammation and vascular responses

Victoria Belén Occhieppo, Osvaldo Martin Basmadjian, Claudia Bregonzio*   

  1. Instituto de Farmacología Experimental Córdoba (IFEC-CONICET), Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
  • Online:2021-03-15 Published:2020-12-17
  • Contact: Claudia Bregonzio, PhD, claubregonzio@unc.edu.ar.

Abstract: Mental disorders have been commonly associated with an imbalance in many neurotransmitter systems, such as dopamine, glutamate, and gamma-aminobutyric acid. Considering the complexity of brain functioning, all components of the neurovascular unit should be considered in studies for a better comprehension of the physiopathology and possible therapeutics. ANG II is present in the brain and binds to AT1 receptors (AT1-R), located in the neurovascular unit and has a close relationship with the mentioned neurotransmitter systems. In pathological conditions, AT1-R expressed in astrocytes, microglia, and brain endothelial cells are key mediators in the development of an oxidative/inflammatory microenvironment, as well as in glial activation. Therefore, pharmacological intervention targeting AT1-R provides a holistic and moderated approach to modulate neurotransmission systems in addition to the glial and vascular responses (Figure 1). This interaction is underscored by several studies that related brain ANG II to neurological disorders, such as Parkinson´s disease (PD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).