Cardiovascular Effects of Angiotensin-(1-7) in Obesity Hypertension

This study is investigating whether a naturally occurring molecule called angiotensin-(1-7) can lower blood pressure and improve heart and blood vessel function in people who are obese and have high blood pressure. This molecule is part of the body's own blood pressure regulation system and may offer a new treatment approach. **You may be eligible if...** - You are 18–65 years old, of any race or sex - Your BMI is between 30 and 45 (obese range) - You have pre-hypertension or hypertension (blood pressure above 120/80 mmHg), with or without blood pressure medication (up to 2 medications) - You can speak and read English **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You are taking more than 2 blood pressure medications - You have a secondary cause of hypertension (such as a hormone-producing tumor or adrenal disease) - You are pregnant or nursing - You have significant heart, kidney, or liver disease - You have a history of alcohol or substance abuse Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.