Is reduced blood flow in the brain linked to high blood pressure?

Examining the role of Cushing's mechanism and sympathetic nerve activity in human hypertension

The development of high blood pressure (hypertension) is incompletely understood. Dr Emma Hart and colleagues believe that reduced brain blood flow might be involved in the development of hypertension because an increase in blood pressure helps to maintain a constant blood flow to the brain. The researchers also think that the structure of the vessels supplying the brain is altered in people with high blood pressure. In this Intermediate Basic Science Research Fellowship, Dr Hart will measure whether there are differences in brain blood flow and vessel structure between people with high and low blood pressures. She will also measure whether these changes in vessel structure could be reversed with certain blood pressure medications. This research could find new ways of treating high blood pressure in the future.