Good Research Paper On Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System

The Raas system or the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone system plays a central role in controlling the arterial blood pressure and the blood flow in the kidneys. It also maintains the glomerular filtration rate. The three major components in the Raas system are renin, angiotensin and aldosterone . The Raas system activates in the body when the heart becomes incapable to provide regular renal perfusion. It helps to compensate hypotension, hypovolemia and hyponatremia. The Raas system has various effects on the cardiovascular system. It contributes to cardiac remodeling and injury. The Raas system also leads to the retention of fluid and maladaptive vascular remodeling resulting in the depression of cardiac function . Another function of the Raas system is the stimulation of sodium reabsorption and renal artery stenosis.
The Raas system stimulates the release of a hormone called vasopressin, which aids in the increase of fluid retention by the kidneys. It checks the deprivation of salt and maintains the salt levels to prevent intravascular volume contraction. The failure of the Raas system causes insulin resistance and inflammation. It narrows down the blood vessels and leads to an increased vulnerability to arrhythmias and ultimately heart failure . The failure of the Raas system also causes cardiac hypertrophy and increases the heart rate, which raises the blood pressure. It results in the inability to maintain proper blood volume that flows in the entire body. It causes imbalances in inhibiting and reversing the mechanism of cardiac hypertrophy. Excessive inhibition of the Raas system leads to adverse effects causing electrolyte disturbances that limit the therapeutic benefits of drugs . The maladaptive mechanism of the Raas system is the major cause for sudden death in patients suffering from cardiovascular ailments.

References

Andrew, P. (2012). Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone Activation in Heart Failure, Aldosterone Escape. Chest Journal , 122-124.
Peters, J. J. (2007). The Renin-Angiotensin Aldosterone System: Pathophysiological Role and Pharmacologic Inhibition. Pubmed , 9-20.
Remuzzi, G. (2012). The Renin-Angiotensin System and Blood Pressure Control. UKRO , 23-24.