DO IMMUNE-SYSTEM CHANGES HAVE A ROLE IN HYPERTENSION

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.