Molecular Advances in Hypertension and Blood
Hematopoietic cells and their microvesicles have recently emerged as novel markers of cardiovascular risk. The crosstalk between these vesicles and endothelial dysfunction or vascular damage is a field of continuous progress. Additionally, thromboinflammation represents an emerging concept in cardiovascular diseases. In hypertension, the role of signaling pathways in hypertension remains also under investigation. Realizing the unmet needs of increased awareness of treating physicians and active researchers in this complex setting, we launched our Special Issue on “Molecular Advances in Hypertension and Blood”. Our issue has addressed both sides of the coin by publishing four articles that are summarized in this editorial. Firstly, we published an experimental study providing evidence that certain molecular pathways may be involved in myocardial remodeling in the settings of arterial hypertension and chronic kidney disease. Secondly, an in vitro study revealed a novel immune-modulatory effect of Ticagrelor, which is widely used in patients with hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Thirdly, another translational study assessed endothelial injury and pro-coagulant activity using circulating microvesicles in survivors of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation, compared to a control population matched for traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Lastly, a review article delineated the role of Toll-like receptors in the pathogenesis of essential hypertension.