Hypertension is the most common pathological indicator for cardiovascular diseases. The key biological system that regulates blood pressure is the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS); its dysregulation at almost any level can precipitate hypertension. For this reason, pathways in the RAAS can be manipulated for pharmacological interventions (e.g., ACE inhibitors).
New research by Brant Isakson, PhD, a professor in the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, will interrogate the release of renin, the rate limiting step of activation of the RAAS, from juxtaglomerular (JG) cells in the afferent arterioles. Specifically, the application is focused on his recent work involving Pannexin1 channels in JG cells, as well as how Pannexin1 channels may be coupled to PIEZO1 channels.
Dr. Isakson’s research will be supported by a $2.6 million grant from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. The long-term outcome from the studies may be a novel pharmacological target for treatment of hypertension.
As an emerging leader in cardiovascular research, he was awarded the 2024 Robert M. Berne Distinguished Lectureship last year.