Angiotensin II vaccine: a novel approach in the treatment of hypertension

BACKGROUND: Hypertension affects approximately 65 million Americans, resulting in 30 million office visits per year. Only about one third of patients have blood pressure below goal. Poor adherence to drug therapy is an important contributor to this statistic. An active immunization, which would induce antibodies against angiotensin, could simplify and improve treatment. An ideal regimen would be a few subcutaneous injections per year, which in turn could vastly improve adherence and subsequent outcomes. OBJECTIVE: To discuss Cyt006-AngAb, a novel vaccine targeting angiotensin II, which is chemically linked to recombinant virus-like particles. Emphasis is placed on current progress of this vaccine's clinical trials. METHODS: Relevant literature is discussed. CONCLUSION: Although advances in hypertension vaccines have faced challenges, the angiotensin II vaccine may provide a promising approach in the control of hypertension.