Immunology of Hypertension: Pathophysiological and Therapeutic Aspects

Hypertension affects over 1.39 billion people globally, causing 9.4 million deaths annually. This paper examines the intricate relationship between the immune system and hypertension, highlighting the contributions of both innate and adaptive immune responses. The innate response, involving natural killer (NK) cells, macrophages, toll-like receptors (TLRs), and dendritic cells, contributes to organ damage and inflammatory responses, exacerbating hypertension. Adaptive immunity, particularly T cells, further exacerbates vascular and renal dysfunction through the release of cytokines such as IFN-γ, IL-17A, and TNF-α, ultimately leading to multisystem damage. Therapeutic strategies targeting these immune responses are being explored, including immunosuppressants such as mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and methotrexate (MTX), as well as monoclonal antibodies against IL-1β and TNF-α. While these strategies show promise, further research is needed to evaluate their efficacy and safety. Furthermore, this paper highlights the potential benefits of immunological approaches in managing the root causes of hypertension, offering an alternative to conventional therapies focused on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. In conclusion, this work highlights the immune mechanisms in the hypertension pathogenesis, identifying them as potential therapeutic targets for enhanced management and improved patient outcomes.