Alamandine can be formed from angiotensin A by action of ACE-2 or directly from angiotensin-(1-7) by decarboxylation of its aspartate residue. The angiotensin A analog produces effects resembling those of Ang II (1-7). However, it acts independently of the two known vasodilators receptors of the RAS (Mas and angiotensin II type 2). To produce its effects, alamandine binds to the Mas-related receptor, MrgD. A novel orally active formulation of alamandine produced a long-term antihypertensive effect in spontaneously hypertensive rats and cardioprotective effects. These novel findings will be helpful for developing a new understanding of the RAS, a key regulator of blood pressure and fluid balance. The heptapeptide could serve as a model peptide, e.g. in the development and evaluation of analytical methods.