Role of angiotensin in different malignancies

Renin–angiotensin system (RAS) is associated with different diseases including stroke, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes. A complex network of G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs) including angiotensin II receptor type 1 (AT1R), angiotensin II receptor type 2 (AT2R), mitochondrial assembly receptor (MASR), and Mas-related G protein–coupled receptor D (MRGD) constitute the RAS, which orchestrates the effects of angiotensin II (Ang II), angiotensin (1–7), and alamandine hormones produced by ACE1 and ACE2, respectively. Ang II activates AT1R, which activates the intracellular cascade of biological processes regulating cellular proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, and inflammation. Therefore, RAS components play a crucial role in tumor growth, and dissemination of tumor cells over distant tissues, via remodeling of tumor microenvironment. The role of RAS inhibitors in favoring active tumor progression or utility as anticancer therapeutics remains unresolved. Herein, we review the participation of different RAS components in different malignancies and discuss their possible role in designing improved therapeutic intervention strategies.