The RAS (renin-angiotensin system) is one of the earliest and most extensively studied hormonal systems. Although originally considered to act solely in an endocrine manner, recent findings have highlighted the complexity of the system with both autocrine/paracrine and intracrine effects being described. In this Review, which forms part of the commissioned series entitled the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System in the Cardiovascular System and Beyond, the authors focus on the presence and composition of the intracellular RAS and the intracrine function of AngII in different tissues.

To mark the appointment of Professor Rhian Touyz as Editor-in-Chief, throughout 2012 we invite original manuscripts on the role of the RAAS in all aspects of human health and disease. Both clinical and laboratory studies addressing the cellular and molecular mechanisms of the RAAS are particularly encouraged.

Submit your manuscript, via www.clinsci.org/submit, which will undergo the Journal's normal peer review process. Accepted articles will be published online immediately, and will also be highlighted in a dedicated online issue alongside specially commissioned reviews on this topic.