Introduction

The aim of this program is to elucidate fundamental mechanisms involved in the long-term elevation of blood pressure. The program is based on evidence that endogenous ouabain, a novel adrenocortical hormone, is elevated in many patients with essential hypertension and in many animal models of salt-dependent hypertension. We focus on the key roles of endogenous ouabain, ouabain-sensitive Na⁺ pumps (Na⁺, K⁺ -ATPase) and the Na⁺/Ca²⁺ exchanger (NCX)  in the pathogenesis of essential hypertension, as illustrated in Figure 1 and described in the overview below. The program fosters research interactions among a team of University of Maryland scientists and collaborators at other institutions around the world.

Figure 1

PPG Organization

Project Leaders and Core Directors

• Project 1 and Core A: Mordecai P. Blaustein, MD 
• Project 2: Vera A. Golovina, PhD 
• Core B: John M. Hamlyn, PhD 
• Project 3 and Core C: Withrow Gil Wier, PhD 
• Project 4: Thomas L. Pallone, MD