Pepsin vs. Renin — What's the Difference?

A digestive enzyme that breaks down proteins in the stomach.

A hormone involved in the regulation of blood pressure.

Produced in the stomach lining.

Part of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.

Activated by stomach acidity.

Linked to cardiovascular and renal health.

Essential for protein digestion.

Secreted by the kidneys.

Associated with digestive health.

Influences electrolyte balance.

Pepsin is an endopeptidase that breaks down proteins into smaller peptides. It is produced in the gastric chief cells of the stomach lining and is one of the main digestive enzymes in the digestive systems of humans and many other animals, where it helps digest the proteins in food.

Renin (etymology and pronunciation), also known as an angiotensinogenase, is an aspartic protease protein and enzyme secreted by the kidneys that participates in the body's renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS)—also known as the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone axis—that mediates the volume of extracellular fluid (blood plasma, lymph and interstitial fluid) and arterial vasoconstriction. Thus, it regulates the body's mean arterial blood pressure.

A digestive enzyme found in gastric juice that catalyzes the breakdown of protein to peptides.

An enzyme released by the kidneys that cleaves a plasma protein to produce an inactive form of angiotensin which is then converted to an active form that raises blood pressure.

A substance containing pepsin, obtained from the stomachs of hogs and calves and used as a digestive aid.

(enzyme) A circulating enzyme released by mammalian kidneys that converts angiotensinogen to angiotensin I. Due to its activity which ultimately leads to the formation of angiotensin II and aldosterone, this hormone plays a role in maintaining blood pressure.

(enzyme) A digestive enzyme that chemically digests, or breaks down, proteins into shorter chains of amino acids.

A proteolytic enzyme secreted by the kidneys; catalyzes the formation of angiotensin and thus affects blood pressure

A proteolytic enzyme (MW 34,500) contained in the secretory glands of the stomach. In the gastric juice it is united with dilute hydrochloric acid (0.2 per cent, approximately) and the two together constitute the active portion of the digestive fluid. It degrades proteins to proteoses and peptides, and is notable for having a very low pH optimum for its activity. It is the active agent in the gastric juice of all animals.

An enzyme produced in the stomach that splits proteins into peptones

Yes, an imbalance in pepsin can lead to digestive issues such as peptic ulcers or indigestion.

Pepsin activity can vary based on factors like stomach pH levels and the individual's overall digestive health.

Renin release is triggered by reduced renal blood flow, decreased sodium concentration, or lowered blood pressure.

Pepsinogen, the precursor to pepsin, is secreted by the stomach and activated by gastric acid.

Pepsin primarily breaks down proteins into smaller peptides, facilitating nutrient absorption in the intestine.

High renin levels can lead to hypertension and contribute to the risk of heart disease.

Conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcer disease can be associated with pepsin dysfunction.

Dehydration can trigger increased renin secretion as the body attempts to conserve water and sodium.

Diets high in protein can increase pepsin production, as more enzyme activity is required for protein digestion.

Renin regulates blood pressure by initiating a chain reaction that increases arterial constriction and sodium retention.

While primarily affecting blood pressure, renin also impacts kidney function and electrolyte management.

Yes, several types of blood pressure medications, such as ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers, can affect renin production.

Symptoms like frequent heartburn, stomach discomfort, and poor digestion can indicate pepsin issues.

Maintaining adequate hydration, regular exercise, and a balanced diet can help regulate renin levels.

Blood tests can assess renin activity and levels, while specific gastric tests might be used to evaluate pepsin function.