Figure 10. The schematic of the hypothesis showing the mechanism by which high-salt diet induces hypertension.

The p44/42 MAPK (ERK1/2) pathway in the PVN was activated in high salt-induced hypertension, which results in the imbalance of neurotransmitters and overloads of ROS in the PVN. These changes and their interactions cause sympathoexcitation and eventually accelerate progression of hypertension. Treatment with PD98059 to block p44/42 MAPK pathway could reverse the pathophysiological process of hypertension through attenuating oxidative stress, and restoring the balance of neurotransmitters in PVN.