Angiotensinogen, otherwise known as AGT, is a hepatic peptide that is the precursor for all of the angiotensin peptides. 

Angiotensinogen

Michigan State University

The renin–angiotensin system (RAS) plays a central role in cardiovascular physiology by maintaining blood pressure, controlling blood volume, regulating sodium concentration in the plasma, and keeping the electrolytes balanced.  When homeostasis is perturbed, the RAS can cause inflammation and structural remodeling of the tissue.  This can lead to vascular, renal, and cardiac damage.

Renin–Angiotensin System (RAS)

Physiological Components of the RAS

Ang II is a hormone that is regulated by the RAS.  The excessive adipose tissue associated with obesity is known to secrete this molecule which stimulates inflammation, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and vasoconstriction.  Insulin resistance can exacerbate these conditions by further stimulating the RAS.  A relationship exists between pancreatic beta islet cells (B-cells) and the RAS: B-cell dysfunction leads to increased expression AT1R, the receptor for Ang II, and insulin resistance while RAS inhibition increases B-cell function and insulin sensitivity.  

Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) Activity May Contribute to COVID-19 Morbidity and Mortality in Obese Patients

Regulators of the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS)

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is also referred as the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) due to the role of the hormone aldosterone within this system. Aldosterone is released from the adrenal cortex when angiotensin is formed. As a result, this hormone can interrupt the homeostasis of this endocrine system. 

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