The Central Nervous System and Inflammation in Hypertension

• Authors: Paul J. Marvar, Emory University; Heinrich Lob, Emory University; Antony Vinh, Emory University; Faresa Zarreen, Emory University; David G Harrison, Emory University
• Journal Title: Current Opinion in Pharmacology
• Volume: Volume 11, Number 2
• Publisher: Elsevier: 12 months | 2011-04, Pages 156-161
• Type of Work: Article | Post-print: After Peer Review
• Publisher DOI: http://doi.org/10.1016/j.coph.2010.12.001
• Subjects: Health Sciences, Medicine and Surgery; Health Sciences, Pharmacology

Abstract

In recent years a major research effort has focused on the role of inflammation, and in particular adaptive immunity, in the genesis of hypertension. Hypertension stimulates the accumulation of inflammatory cells including macrophages and T lymphocytes in peripheral tissues important in blood pressure control, such as the kidney and vasculature. Angiotensin II modulates blood pressure via actions on the central nervous system (CNS) and the adaptive immune system. Recent work suggests that the central actions of angiotensin II via the circumventricular organs lead to activation of circulating T-cells and vascular inflammation. The neuroimmune system plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of hypertension and further understanding of this relationship could lead to the development of new treatment strategies.