[Brain renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and cognitive function].

The presence of hypertension and other vascular risk factors such as diabetes mellitus is known to be associated with the decreased cognitive function. Blood pressure-lowering with antihypertensive agents was suggested to reduce the risk of dementia or cognitive decline. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system plays a role not only in the cardiovascular system including blood pressure regulation, but also in the central nervous system. The possible beneficial effects of ARB and ACE inhibitor on cognitive function are also becoming highlighted in the clinical field. This article reviews the effects of regulation of activation of angiotensin II receptor subtypes, and ACE2/angiotensin- (1-7)/Mas receptor on ischemic brain damage and cognitive function.