The cause of high blood pressure may lie within the brain, rather than with problems relating to the heart, kidneys or blood vessels, a TV channel said citing a new research.
Scientists at Bristol University say the findings could lead to new ways of treating the condition. The scientists isolated a protein, JAM-1, which appeared to trap white blood cells, obstructing blood flow. This can cause inflammation and result in poor oxygen supply to the brain.
Professor Julian Paton and colleagues believe these, in turn, trigger events that raise blood pressure, the journal Hypertension reports. Their studies in rates show JAM-1 is linked to raised blood pressure, but the exact mechanisms behind this are still unclear. They are now looking at the human brain to understand more. It can lead to heart attack, stroke and kidney damage, but medication can be used to control its effects if changes to lifestyle fail to lower blood pressure.
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