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Sex differences in the developmental programming of hypertension
N B Ojeda1, S Intapad, B T Alexander
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA; Women's Health Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA.
Acta Physiologica (Oxford, England)
|November 26, 2013
Summary
Experimental models show that male offspring develop higher blood pressure than females after early life insults. This review explores mechanisms behind sex differences in developmental programming of hypertension.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Developmental Biology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Barker's hypothesis links low birthweight to hypertension.
- Experimental models reveal sex differences in blood pressure programming, with males typically higher.
- Pre-menopausal women generally have lower blood pressure than men, but this is unclear in low birthweight individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review mechanisms contributing to sex differences in developmental programming of blood pressure.
- To explore how early life insults influence sex-specific blood pressure regulation.
- To understand the role of renin-angiotensin system, hormonal milieu, oxidative stress, and adiposity.
Main Methods:
- Review of findings from various experimental models of developmental programming.
- Analysis of studies investigating sex differences in blood pressure regulation.
- Examination of molecular and physiological pathways involved in hypertension development.
Main Results:
- Male offspring consistently show higher blood pressure than females post-developmental insult.
- Innate sex differences in renin-angiotensin system expression may play a role.
- Hormonal influences and age-dependent changes in cardiovascular risk factors contribute to sex disparities.
Conclusions:
- Sex differences in developmental programming of blood pressure are influenced by multiple factors.
- Early life insults can exacerbate sex-specific vulnerabilities to hypertension.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the complex interplay of factors driving sex differences in blood pressure regulation.
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