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Summary
Platelet serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine) release can cause vasospasm and ischemia. In hypertension, altered 5-HT clearance and increased blood vessel sensitivity contribute to elevated blood pressure.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Platelet 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) release may induce vasospasm and ischemia.
- In hypertension, 5-HT might contribute to sustained peripheral resistance increases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of 5-HT in hypertension.
- To examine 5-HT's effects on blood vessel responsiveness and clearance in hypertensive models.
Main Methods:
- Assessed blood vessel wall responsiveness to 5-HT in hypertension models.
- Evaluated 5-HT clearance and platelet uptake/release in hypertensive animals and humans.
- Administered ketanserin, a 5-HT2 antagonist, to hypertensive subjects.
Main Results:
- Hypertensive models showed increased blood vessel sensitivity and delayed tachyphylaxis to 5-HT.
- Hypertensive animals exhibited reduced 5-HT clearance; hypertensive patients' platelets showed decreased uptake and accelerated release.
- Ketanserin effectively lowered blood pressure in hypertensive humans and animals.
Conclusions:
- 5-HT plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of hypertension.
- Targeting 5-HT signaling with antagonists like ketanserin offers a potential therapeutic strategy for hypertension.