What effect does angiotensin II have on blood pressure?

Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor, meaning it causes blood vessels to constrict, which increases vascular resistance. When blood vessels constrict, the pressure within them rises, leading to an overall increase in blood pressure. Additionally, angiotensin II stimulates the release of aldosterone from the adrenal glands, which promotes sodium and water retention by the kidneys. This sodium and water retention further contributes to increased blood volume, which also elevates blood pressure. Therefore, the primary role of angiotensin II in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system is to increase blood pressure, making it an essential factor in regulating cardiovascular health and responding to low blood pressure or volume.