AGT and endothelial dysfunction: Such mechanisms may include, for example, (i) the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system, consisting in a cascade in which angiotensinogen is converted by angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) into angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor that causes the rise of blood pressure; (ii) stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system, causing arteriolar constriction; (iii) endothelial dysfunction; and (iv) the production of vasoactive substances that affect sodium transport and vascular tone thus regulating blood pressure [8].