ARA2

ARA2, also known as Angiotensin II Receptor Type 2, is a protein that plays a significant role in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). This system is crucial for regulating blood pressure and fluid balance in the body. While the Angiotensin II Receptor Type 1 (AT1R) is primarily responsible for the vasoconstrictive and aldosterone-releasing effects of angiotensin II, ARA2 exhibits distinct and often opposing actions.

The ARA2 receptor is activated by angiotensin II, but its signaling pathways differ from those of AT1R. It is known to mediate vasodilation, promote cell growth and differentiation, and can have anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative effects. The precise physiological functions of ARA2 are still an active area of research, but it is believed to act as a counter-regulatory mechanism to the actions of AT1R, helping to fine-tune cardiovascular responses. Studies have suggested that activation of ARA2 may offer protective benefits in various cardiovascular diseases, and it has become a target for therapeutic interventions aimed at conditions like hypertension and heart failure. Its expression levels can vary in different tissues and under different physiological conditions, further highlighting its complex role.