Cardiovascular disease is the first common cause of death worldwide. Hypertension is the
number one driving risk factor. Hypertension has long been associated with dietary salt
intake. We believe that the accumulation of salt in the interstitium and inside cells
represents a neglected risk factor, which initiates a pro-inflammatory state, chronically
increases blood pressure, and leads to systemic energy imbalance. We will explore the concept
that Na+ storage in the skin and in muscle is associated with increased blood pressure, a
pro-inflammatory state, and reduced insulin sensitivity. We will do so by addressing the
following specific aims:
- Specific Aim 1: To test the hypothesis that African Americans are characterized by
increased tissue Na+ storage, which is paralleled by higher blood pressure, reduced
forearm blood flow, and enhanced pulse wave velocity
- Specific Aim 2: To test the hypothesis that treatment with spironolactone reduces tissue
Na+ content
- Specific Aim 3: To test the hypothesis that Na+ storage leads to immune cell activation
- Specific Aim 4: To test the hypothesis that the accumulation of salt in skin and muscle
is associated with decreased insulin sensitivity and propensity to diabetes mellitus