Table 1.
Autonomic Cardiovascular Regulation in African Americans: Summary of the Literature
| Parameters | AA Men1 | AA Women1 |
|---|---|---|
| SNS activity and obesity | No association between SNS and BMI [22, 24] | Positive but weak association between SNS and BMI [22, 24] |
| SNS-modulation of BP (ganglionic blockade) | No data available | Decreased, no changes in BP during trimethaphan [27] |
| Alpha-1 AR sensitivity | Increased sensitivity [30, 32] | No data in AA women |
| Beta-1 AR sensitivity | Decreased sensitivity [28,34] | No data in AA women |
| Sympathetic Vascular Transduction | Exaggerated vasoconstriction to sympathoexcitation [32, 36–39] | Increased systemic vascular resistance with exercise [42] |
| Baroreflex Responsiveness | Impaired baroreflex sensitivity [54,55] | Impaired [57] |
| Heart Rate Variability, PNS activity | Decreased [55] | Decreased among obese AAW [62, 63] |
1
Referenced studies include non-Hispanic white subjects as reference for comparisons.
AA, African American; SNS, sympathetic nervous system; BP, blood pressure; AR, adrenergic receptor; PNS, parasympathetic nervous system.