High blood pressure is a significant health problem, and not just in terms of health effects.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveals that it contributes to a staggering $131 billion in healthcare costs every year.
While there are ways to reduce high blood pressure, such as changing diet and increasing exercise, many people struggle to manage it.
About half of those with high blood pressure can’t get it below the healthy threshold of 120/80 mmHg. It’s clear that new treatments are needed, and a recent study from Yale University might have found a path forward.
A Genetic Clue
The researchers at Yale identified a gene that might be responsible for high blood pressure. They found a genetic defect that seemed to cause this condition, sometimes known as hypertension.
The discovery of this gene, called PRDM6, was a crucial step in their research. They believe that understanding how this gene works could lead to new treatments for high blood pressure.
In their study, the scientists used data from large-scale genetic studies and advanced testing methods. They found that the PRDM6 gene had a vital job in the body.
It kept the number of cells that produce a substance called renin under control while the body was developing.
Renin is a crucial part of the blood pressure story. It’s an enzyme made by the kidneys. If there’s too much of it, it can cause high blood pressure.
The researchers found that a drug that stops renin from working, called Aliskiren, was able to bring blood pressure back to normal levels.
Looking Ahead
This new genetic research has created a buzz in the scientific community. The research team has been able to link a change in the PRDM6 gene to the development of high blood pressure.
This is the first time anyone has been able to show this connection.
The researchers will keep studying PRDM6 to learn more about its role in blood pressure regulation.
They think that because PRDM6 is an epigenetic regulator (it controls how other genes are used), understanding its function will also give insight into how our environment can affect our blood pressure.
As we learn more about high blood pressure, other research is also providing helpful tips for managing this condition.
For example, recent studies suggest that a plant nutrient could help reduce high blood pressure, and black tea and herbal supplements might also be beneficial.
The study was led by Arya Mani and was published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation.
This research offers an exciting glimpse into the future of high blood pressure treatment and could pave the way for more effective medications.
If you care about blood pressure, please read studies that common painkiller can harm your blood pressure, and common high blood pressure drugs may actually raise blood pressure.
For more information about blood pressure control, please see recent studies about teas that may help reduce high blood pressure, and results showing this recommended high blood pressure drug may have dangerous side effects.
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