Table 2.

Cytokines and hypertension

Infusion of TNF-α or IL-6 into pregnant rats increases arterial BP.

Infusion of TNF-α into pregnant baboons causes increases in BP and proteinuria.

TNF-α activates the endothelin system in the kidneys.

IL-6 activates the renin-angiotensin system.

Proinflammatory cytokines cause vasoconstriction.

Suppression of proinflammatory cytokines results in reduction of hypertension and proteinuria.

There is a negative correlation between IL-10 levels and BP.

Infusion of IL-10 leads to improvement of PE-like symptoms in mice.