Renin Unit Converter

Renin is an enzyme made by special cells in your kidneys. It plays a key role in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which regulates your blood pressure, fluid balance, and electrolyte levels.

When blood pressure drops, sodium levels decrease, or potassium rises, your kidneys release renin into the bloodstream. Renin then converts a liver protein called angiotensinogen into angiotensin I, which eventually becomes angiotensin II. This cascade helps raise blood pressure and signals the adrenal glands to release aldosterone.

Renin levels are often measured alongside aldosterone to help identify the cause of high blood pressure or electrolyte imbalances.

Renin is produced and released by specialized cells called juxtaglomerular cells, located in the walls of the arterioles entering the kidney's glomeruli. Small amounts may also be produced in other tissues, including the heart and blood vessels.