Structure, Regulation and Evolution of the Genes for the Renin-Angiotensin and the Kallikrein-Kinin Systems

The renin-angiotensin and the kallikrein-kinin systems play important physiological roles including regulation of blood pressure and inflammation reactions. Our understanding of the structures, gene organizations and regulations of the enzymes and the peptide precursors in these systems has remarkably increased during the past few years. This article summarizes recent progress in the molecular and genetic studies of renin, angiotensinogen, kallikrein, and kininogens, and discusses some new aspects explored in these areas of research.