Defining a new mechanism of blood pressure regulation and its role during sepsis

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Dysregulation in blood pressure is a leading cause of mortality as it is causatively associated with cardiovascular disease and the pathology that underlies sepsis. Therefore, it is important that we improve our understanding of how blood pressure is regulated, so that patients can be provided with effective therapy. In this study we aim to explore a newly identified mechanism that is likely to explain how infection can lead to changes in blood pressure. This is through the activation of a cellular DNA sensor named cGAS. Once activated by DNA derived from bacteria or viruses this protein generates a small molecule called cGAMP, which we have discovered can mediate vessel relaxation and lowering of blood pressure through a novel process. The aim of this study is to further investigate this new process and its role in regulating blood pressure, as well as in the underlying pathology of sepsis. Here it anticipated that findings with provide greater insight into how blood pressure is regulated, as well as new targets for therapy.