What effects would increased blood pressure have on nephron function?
Hypertension represents a common and powerful predisposing
factor for cardiovascular disease or events and renal failure.
Approximately 90% of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD)
have a history of hypertension. High blood pressure may initiate
renal damage and also increase the rate of progression of renal
insufficiency. Persistent high blood pressure represents the early
trigger mechanism for renal disease.
The final pathway is represented by progressive sclerosis of
glomeruli (Vascular part of nephron). A main role is played by
transforming growth factor 1 (TGF1), a multifunctional cytokine
that regulates cell growth, differentiation, matrix production,
blocks matrix degradation, inducing fibrosis in many tissues,
including kidney, blood vessels, lung and heart. High circulating
levels of TGF1 can mediate renal fibrosis and loss of function.