How the orexin system affects high blood pressure
Official title: Contribution of Orexin System to Hypertension
Funded at Michigan Technological University · NIH-11061045 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a brain system called the orexin system affects high blood pressure that can be worsened by eating too much salt, and it's aimed at helping people with this condition find better ways to manage it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan Technological University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houghton, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2022 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $395,316 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL163159-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11061045 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with salt-sensitive hypertension or those at risk for developing this condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with hypertension not related to salt sensitivity or those with other underlying health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the orexin system in the development of salt-sensitive hypertension, a condition that significantly contributes to cardiovascular disease. By studying animal models, the researchers aim to understand how increased activity of the orexin system influences sympathetic nerve activity and neuroendocrine regulation, which are critical in hypertension. The study will explore the molecular mechanisms involved and how dietary salt intake affects orexin signaling in the brain and adrenal glands. This could lead to new insights into hypertension management and treatment options.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing high blood pressure, particularly in patients with salt-sensitive hypertension.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the role of the orexin system in hypertension, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Michigan Technological University
Houghton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shan, Zhiying — Michigan Technological University
- Study coordinator: Shan, Zhiying
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
HEARTS hypertension and diabetes care in Guatemala
This grant tests how well the HEARTS primary care model works in Guatemala to improve blood pressure and blood sugar control for patients.
-
Integrated Heart Health: A HEARTS-based approach to hypertension and diabetes in Guatemala
A study tests a team-based, stepwise care model to improve blood pressure and blood sugar control for people with both hypertension and diabetes in Guatemala.
-
Coaching and Navigation by Community Health Workers via Telehealth for High-Risk Hypertension
A program using telehealth and community health workers to help adults with severe hypertension connect to primary care and follow practical, heart-healthy lifestyle tips.
-
Community Health Worker–Led Hypertension Prevention and Control in Nepal
A community health worker–driven approach in Nepal aims to prevent and control high blood pressure among adults by bringing education and care directly to communities and homes.
-
Community health worker-led hypertension prevention and control in Nepal
A community health worker–led program in Nepal aims to help adults prevent and better control high blood pressure through home visits, education, and ongoing support.
-
Noninvasive portal pressure estimation using ultrasound-based subharmonic signals
A noninvasive ultrasound method to estimate portal vein pressure in adults with cirrhosis to help manage varices and ascites.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.