Aldosterone in angiotensin II-induced hypertension

Tulane University Of Louisiana, New Orleans LA

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Abstract

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) regulates Na+ balance and blood pressure. Angiotensin II (Ang II) infusion induces hypertension and increases aldosterone (aldo), which should increase Na+ and water retention and exacerbate the hypertension. Elevated aldo has also been associated with fibrosis and tissue damage. Therefore, blockade of RAAS components should attenuate Ang II-induced hypertension. However, the contribution of aldo in renal Na+ and water handling during Ang II hypertension remains inconclusive. This study will test the hypothesis that aldo receptor blockade decreases Na+ and water retention and attenuates blood pressure in Ang II-induced hypertension. Specifically, the aims are 1) to determine the contribution of aldo to Na+ and water retention in Ang II-induced hypertensive rats treated with placebo or mineralocorticoid antagonists maintained, and 2) to determine the contribution of aldo to Na+ and water retention during Ang II-induced hypertension independent of elevated blood pressure and in the presence of reduced renal perfusion pressure. Unlike previous studies, the present study will provide a more comprehensive examination of the renal effects induced by aldo antagonism.