Molecular genetics of the SA gene

1. We have recently identified a candidate gene for rat genetic hypertension, termed SA, by identifying an mRNA species that shows markedly higher expression in the kidneys of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) than in those of Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). 2. Subsequent genetic co-segregation analyses by ourselves and others indicated that the SA gene locus did indeed influence blood pressure. Moreover, in a preliminary association study, we found an association of a polymorphism of the human SA gene with essential hypertension. 3. Further studies to identify functions of the SA gene products are required before reaching a definite conclusion.