Adipocyte production of angiotensinogen explains the frequent occurrence of hypertension in obesity and insulin resistance. Adipose tissue and liver cells produce angiotensinogen, a precursor of angiotensin II. Most angiotensinogen is from liver synthesis, but increased levels in obesity are likely from increased adipocyte synthesis.
Besides increasing blood pressure, angiotensin II may stimulate adipose cell formation and thus increase adipose mass.
