Respiratory modulation of RVLM premotor neurons: role in the sympathetic over-activity of hypertension. [ 2007 - 2009 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Andrew Allen (Principal investigator) ,  Dr Anthony Pickering ,  Prof Julian Paton

Brief description Hypertension is a common health disorder in all societies and is a major risk factor for the development of life threatening cardiovascular diseases, including heart failure and stroke. Whilst some effective therapies are available, many patients are not adequately treated or have reduced quality of life due to serious side effects. There is a great need for alternative therapies. The central nervous system is clearly involved in hypertension although the level of that involvement is not well understood- i.e. is it a causal factor or just a contributor to the maintenance of established hypertension? The experiments outlined in this application are based on the observation that modulation of nervous activity to blood vessels is more influenced by the respiratory system in people with high blood pressure, than in normotensive people. We aim to test whether this increased respiratory modulation might be involved in the generation of the high blood pressure.

Funding Amount $AUD 338,605.03

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant