Figure 4.

Hypothesized role of immune mechanisms in the development of salt-sensitive hypertension. Elevations in sympathetic nerve stimulation, elevated renal perfusion pressure, increased antigens or neoantigens, and environmental factors have all been demonstrated to activate immune cells in hypertension. The immune cells infiltrate target organs, including the kidney, and release free radicals, cytokines, and other molecules that mediate tissue damage and alter physiological function. As a result, the effector actions lead to the further development of hypertension and tissue damage.