There is growing evidence to indicate that there is a strong associati
on between changes in the immune system and the development of hyperte
nsion in both animal models and humans. Alterations in immune function
in hypertension are generally accompanied by an increase in the level
and secretion of immunoglobulin, a decrease in the number and functio
n of T-lymphocytes, genetic predisposition, auto-antibodies against nu
clear structure, smooth muscle cells, native thymus tissue and G-prote
in-coupled cardiovascular receptors. Although there is evidence from a
variety of observations to suggest that an abnormal immune system is
involved in the pathogenesis of hypertension, the immunological mechan
ism and the specific role of changes in the immune system in the devel
opment of hypertension have not been elucidated.