Role of Local Angiotensin II Signaling in Bladder Function.

Local renin-angiotensin signaling is present within various organ systems of the body. Angiotensin II signaling acts as a crucial mechanism of the renin-angiotensin signaling system. In this manuscript, we review current literature regarding local angiotensin II signaling in the urinary bladder. Our interest in this pathway is due to its potential role in interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome and other bladder diseases, which are chronic in nature and negatively affect patients' quality of life. Current treatments for bladder diseases are generally ineffective due to our lack of understanding of their pathophysiology. We evaluate literature investigating angiotensin II signaling in the bladder across several perspectives, including local expression and production, functional properties, tissue morphology, and clinical implications. Further, we identify gaps in knowledge and suggest areas where we can improve our understanding of angiotensin II signaling in the bladder.