Blood pressure regulation and the RAAS system

In this talk we turn our attention to blood pressure regulation and the renin angiotensin aldosterone system often referred to as RAAS. Framing our discussion around the importance of blood pressure regulation and the key mechanisms involved in maintaining arterial pressure both in the short and long-term. We will explore how RAAS responds to low blood pressure leading to vasoconstriction and fluid retention. The roles of renin, angiotensin II, and aldosterone in controlling blood volume and pressure will be discussed, as well as how their dysregulation contributes to hypertension and organ damage. Finally, we will review how anti-hypertensive medications target the RAAS to manage high blood pressure and improve cardiovascular outcomes. Blood pressure regulation is crucial for cardiovascular health, ensuring all organs receive sufficient blood flow. The body controls arterial pressure through short and long-term mechanisms. Short-term regulation uses baroreceptor reflexes and the autonomic nervous system to adjust heart rate, cardiac output and vascular tone. Longer term control involves the kidneys which adjust blood volume and sodium balance via the renin angiotensin aldosterone system or RAAS. Disruptions in regulation can lead to hypertension, a major risk factor for stroke, heart attack, and kidney disease. The RAAS activates when the body detects reduced blood flow or a fall in blood pressure, such as after dehydration, blood loss or heart failure. First, renin is released from juxtaglomerular kidney cells. Renin cleaves angiotensinogen produced