Factors Controlling Renin in Man

Abstract

THE FIELD related to the renin-angiotensin system has received great impetus in the last few years because of the accumulating evidence which demonstrates the direct and specific effect of angiotensin on aldosterone secretion and because of the availability of more specific, accurate, sensitive and reproducible methods for measurement of arterial angiotensin levels and of peripheral blood renin activity levels. Recent work from our laboratory strongly suggests that there is a very close relationship between, on one hand, the renin-angiotensin system, and, on the other hand, sodium regulation, some hypertensive entities, and most conditions characterized by significant changes in aldosterone secretion.^1-7 Studies concerning possible factors controlling renin in man assume therefore great importance. In this presentation, we wish to describe our studies concerning three possible factors: (1) sodium intake or excretion, (2) angiotensin, and (3) prolonged and excessive aldosterone secretion. Methods and Subjects The procedure used for measurement of peripheral