Angiotensin II (Ang-II) plays a key role as a vasoconstrictor in controlling blood pressure and electrolyte/fluid homeostasis. Recently it has also been shown that this peptide is a cytokine, acting as a growth factor in cardiovascular and stromal cells. In addition, the physiological function of Ang-II seems to be similar in prostate cancer and stromal cells. It is widely assumed that Ang-II facilitates the growth of both cells, and its receptor blockers (ARBs) have the potential to inhibit the growth of various cancer cells and tumors through the Ang-II receptor type 1 (AT1 receptor). The mechanism of cell growth inhibition by ARBs has been considered to be that of suppression of the signal transduction systems activated by growth factors or cytokines in prostate cancer cells, and suppression of angiogenesis. This review highlights the possible use of ARBs as novel agents for prostatic diseases including prostate cancer and benign hypertrophy, and covers related literature.
