American journal of hypertension
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Vasoconstrictive, proliferative and oxidative effects of angiotensin II (Ang II) are mediated by Ang II type 1 (AT1) receptors. The effects of Ang II via the Ang II type 2 (AT2) receptor subtype (AT2R) are less well defined. Growing evidence shows the existence of cross-talk between the Ang II receptor subtypes, which is revealed by AT1R blockade. Hence, under certain conditions, AT2R may act as an antagonistic system with respect to the AT1R. ⋯ The losartan-unmasked AT2R-vasorelaxation could significantly contribute to the beneficial hemodynamic effects of AT1R blockade. In view of this, our study highlights the importance of the integrated Ang II receptor network, which may help to define further the mechanisms of the well-established vascular protective effects of AT1R blockers.