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Alpha-Adducin Polymorphism and Salt-Induced Hypertension

Grant Winner

  • Luigi X. Cubeddu, M.D., Ph.D. – College of Pharmacy

Dean

  • William Hardigan – College of Pharmacy

Abstract

Genes encoding for alpha-adducin, angiotensin converting enzyme and nitric oxide synthase levels have been considered as candidate genes for hypertension (HT). Alpha adducin is a cytoskeletal protein present in the renal tubules and is involved in sodium reabsorption. Point mutations in this protein (Gly460Trp) are associated with HT. Because alpha adducin regulates sodium reabsorption, mutations in the adducin gene may be associated with salt-sensitive forms of HT. In this study, we propose:

  • To develop an assay with the purpose of genotyping the alpha-adducin point mutation. The assay should detect subjects carrying the wild type of alpha adducin (Gly/Gly), as well as those who carry the heterozygous (Gly460Trp) and homozygous (Trp460Trp) mutants.
  • To determine if the presence of alpha-adducin polymorphism is associated with salt sensitive HT.

This is the first of a series of studies devoted to evaluate the contribution of candidate genes to the development of salt sensitive hypertension.

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