Mas proto-oncogene G protein-coupled receptor (MAS1)

The Mas proto-oncogene G protein-coupled receptor (MAS1) is a key element of the protective arm of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), acting as the primary receptor for Angiotensin-(1-7) [1, 2]. It functions as a physiological antagonist to the Angiotensin II/AT1 receptor axis, mediating vasodilation, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic effects across multiple organ systems [2, 4]. MAS1 is predominantly expressed in the kidneys, heart, and central nervous system, where it regulates blood pressure and protects against tissue remodeling [3, 4]. In clinical contexts, MAS1 is implicated in cardiovascular diseases, chronic kidney disease, and metabolic disorders, where its activation is seen as a strategy to mitigate hypertensive damage [4]. Therapeutic development focuses on MAS1 agonists, such as AVE0991, to harness these protective pathways, though the receptor's history as a proto-oncogene requires monitoring for potential proliferative side effects [1, 4]. Sources: [1] UniProt (P04201); [2] Santos et al. (2003) PNAS; [3] NCBI Gene (4142); [4] Bader (2018) Expert Opin Ther Targets.

Other names

MASMGPRProto-oncogene MasMAS1 proto-oncogene, G protein-coupled receptor

MAS1 acts as a G protein-coupled receptor that, upon binding its primary ligand Angiotensin-(1-7), activates signaling pathways involving nitric oxide (NO) and arachidonic acid release to induce vasodilation and inhibit fibrosis [2, 4]. It also forms heterodimers with the AT1 receptor, directly inhibiting AT1-mediated signaling and providing a dual mechanism for counteracting the classical RAS pathway [4].