This study aimed to elucidate whether angiotensin (Ang) II generated de novo at the infarct site regulates the redox state of inflammatory cells participating in cardiac repair. On days 3-28 following ligation of the rat left coronary artery, we addressed at the infarct site: (a) the appearance and cellular origin of oxidative stress by monitoring the expression (mRNA and protein) of gp91phox (a subunit of superoxide producing NADPH oxidase) and the antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD), together with the presence of 3-nitrotyrosine (a marker of oxidative stress); (b) the presence of components requisite to Ang peptide generation; and (c) response to treatment with losartan (Los, 10 mg/kg/day). We found at the infarct site, macrophage-derived oxidative stress appears during week 1 coincident with the appearance of components requisite to AngII generation and activity in these cells. Based on observed response to AT1 receptor antagonism with Los, we would suggest de novo AngII, in an autocrine manner, participates in the induction of oxidative stress while suppressing the expression of antioxidant defenses. (C) 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.