Physiology of Hypertension

Jasmina Varagic, MD, PhD


The research interests in the laboratory have included mechanisms of target organ injury in hypertension as well as actions of antihypertensive medications. The overall goal of our present research is to understand the mechanisms responsible for the salt-related cardiovascular structural and functional disturbances in naturally occurring hypertension. We particularly investigate the role of circulating and tissue components of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in salt-related cardiac remodeling and dysfunction.  In addition, we collaborate with Dr. Ferrario in continuing quest to reveal novel enzymatic pathways, resulting peptides, and their corresponding receptors into the biochemical cascade of the renin-angiotensin system to provide a better understanding of its role in the regulation of cardiovascular and renal function.