Role of T cells in salt-sensitive females

Blood pressure (BP) control rates remain poor leaving over half of the hypertensive population at increased risk for premature death. While ~81% of hypertensive women are treated for their hypertension, fewer than ~50% achieve BP controlled to recommended levels. This likely relates to the fact that although women account for ~53% of the hypertensive population, the majority of research is performed only in males and representation of women in clinical trials for cardiovascular disease remains well below 50%. A critical barrier to improving BP control rates among women is lack of knowledge regarding the molecular mechanisms increasing their BP. There is growing support for a causal role for T cell activation in salt-induced increases in BP, vascular dysfunction and renal injury, both clinically and in male experimental models of salt-sensitive hypertension. Nothing is known regarding the activation of the immune system in response to salt in females, yet female sex has been suggested to be a non-modifiable risk factor for BP salt-sensitivity. The goal of this Award is to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which dietary sodium impacts cardiovascular health in females. Specifically, we will determine the impact of salt on immune system activation in female rats, the effect of T cell subtypes on cardiovascular health in females, and if nitric oxide promotes the formation of immune-suppressive T regulatory cells. These proposed studies will provide novel insight regarding the molecular mechanisms by which females regulate their BP, which is consistent with the AHA mission to build healthier lives free of cardiovascular disease and improve cardiovascular health care options for both women and men. I have a demonstrated commitment to studying the cardiovascular system as illustrated by my peer-reviewed publications and funding history. This award will enable me to expand my research program into the study of salt-sensitive hypertension in females by supplementing current resources and providing dedicated technical support thereby facilitating the continued rapid-growth of my research program on its current upward trajectory. (AHA Program: Established Investigator Award)