A new concept for an old system: the anti-inflammatory paradigm of the renin-angiotensin system.

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is classically known as a regulator of arterial pressure, which is accomplished by regulating the balance of water and sodium. This has led to the successful development of drugs such as anti-hypertensives that block the system. In addition, this system has a fundamental role in the mechanisms of inflammation and of defense for the cells and tissues of organisms.