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What is another name of renin?

Published in Physiology 1 min read

Another name for renin is angiotensinogenase.

Renin, a crucial enzyme produced by the kidneys, plays a vital role in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). This system helps regulate blood pressure, fluid balance, and electrolyte homeostasis in the body.

Here's a breakdown of renin and its alternative name:

  • Renin: This is the common and widely recognized name for the enzyme. It describes its function in the RAAS system.

  • Angiotensinogenase: This name highlights renin's specific enzymatic activity. It signifies that renin acts on angiotensinogen, a protein produced by the liver, to cleave it into angiotensin I. This is the first step in a cascade of reactions leading to the production of angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor.

In summary, while renin is the more frequently used term, angiotensinogenase accurately describes its enzymatic function within the RAAS.

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