Blood pressure regulation and pathology

Touyz, R. M. (2014) Blood pressure regulation and pathology. In: Willis, M. S., Homeister, J. W. and Stone, J. R. (eds.) Cellular and Molecular Pathobiology of Cardiovascular Disease. Academic Press, pp. 257-275. ISBN 9780124052062 (doi: 10.1016/B978-0-12-405206-2.00014-4)

Abstract

Hypertension affects ∼30% of the adult population worldwide. It is a major risk factor for many common chronic diseases, such as heart failure, myocardial infarction, stroke, and end-stage kidney disease. Although the exact cause of essential hypertension is elusive, it is well established that increased vascular resistance plays a major pathophysiological role in the development of hypertension. Vascular resistance is influenced by vascular tone and structural remodeling, regulated by complex interacting systems such as the renin–angiotensin system, the sympathetic nervous system, and the renal system. Since the early 2000s there have been many new advances in hypertension research including (1) new components of the renin–angiotensin system, (2) role of inflammation and oxidative stress, (3) involvement of the immune system, (4) interstitial salt as a regulator of sodium balance and (5) identification of Mendelian forms of blood pressure variation where rare gene mutations impart large effects on blood pressure. This chapter discusses physiological and molecular mechanisms of hypertension and highlights some new therapeutic approaches, including new drugs, vaccines, and devices.

• Item Type: Book Sections
• Status: Published
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Touyz, Professor Rhian
• Authors: Touyz, R. M.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health
• Publisher: Academic Press
• ISBN: 9780124052062