Inflammation and hypertension: the search for a link.

The last decade has shown an increase in the relevance of inflammation and its mediators in vascular biology; thus, the role of inflammation during atherogenesis is now a matter of intense investigation [1,2]. Basic science studies proved that elements belonging to both innate and adaptive immunity can be involved in the formation, progression and complication of atherosclerosis [2]. Plasma levels of circulating inflammatory molecules, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), have been shown to be predictive of future cardiovascular disease (CVD), and drugs which modify their levels can reduce the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke [3]. It has been known for years that hypertension represents an important risk factor for CVD and its treatment is mandatory to prevent future adverse events. To date, however, very little data are available concerning a potential link between inflammation and hypertension. Inflammation and hypertension may share some pathophysiological mechanisms, and this raises the question of whether the treatment of one of the two conditions could have some impact on the other.