Scientists from the University of São Paulo (Brazil) and the University of Auckland (New Zealand) have just discovered a new mechanism related to high blood pressure, in which a brain region may play a role in triggering this condition.
According to research, the lateral frontal frontal gyrus (pFL) is not only related to breathing control but can also directly affect blood vessels. When abnormally active, this area can constrict blood vessels and increase blood pressure.
In experiments on mice, the research team used genetic techniques to control the activity of nerve cells in the pFL region. When this area is activated, the mouse's blood pressure increases. Conversely, when disabled, the blood pressure drops to normal levels.
The results showed that pFL may link changes in breathing rhythm with increased activity of the sympathetic nervous system, a factor that plays an important role in regulating blood pressure.
This finding may help explain why many patients still have high blood pressure even after using medication. It is estimated that about 40-50% of high blood pressure cases are related to neurological factors.
Scientists also found a link to sleep apnea. When oxygen levels decrease or CO2 levels increase, the pFL region may become more active, thereby increasing the risk of high blood pressure.
Notably, the study opens up a new treatment direction by indirectly impacting this brain region through sensors in the neck called the body scene. This is an approach that can help regulate blood pressure without directly injecting drugs into the brain.
However, researchers note that the results are currently being tested on animals and more human studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness.
