[Kidney and hypertension]

Herz. 2006 Jun;31(4):317-21. doi: 10.1007/s00059-006-2820-z.
[Article in German]

Abstract

The regulation of blood pressure is a complex process, involving several organs. The kidney plays a major role and is involved in the initiation and maintenance of hypertension. Mechanisms involved are: (1) the sympathetic nerveous system, (2) the renin-angiotensin system, (3) the regulation of sodium and water balance, (4) the production of vasoactive substances such as endothelin, adenosine or nitric oxide (NO), and (5) structural alterations such as a reduced number of glomeruli and nephrons. Several therapeutic intervention strategies affecting these mechanisms have already proven to be effective antihypertensive drugs.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antihypertensive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Homeostasis
  • Humans
  • Hypertension / drug therapy*
  • Hypertension / etiology
  • Hypertension / metabolism
  • Hypertension / physiopathology*
  • Kidney / physiopathology*
  • Kidney Diseases / physiopathology
  • Kidney Glomerulus / physiopathology
  • Nephrons / physiopathology
  • Renin-Angiotensin System / physiology
  • Sodium / metabolism
  • Sodium Chloride, Dietary / metabolism
  • Sympathetic Nervous System / physiopathology
  • Water-Electrolyte Balance

Substances

  • Antihypertensive Agents
  • Sodium Chloride, Dietary
  • Sodium