On September 30, 2024, scientists have identified genes that act as switches, triggering cells in the kidneys to produce renin, an enzyme that helps individuals regulate their blood pressure. Typically, muscle cells are known to assist in maintaining blood pressure. However, when blood pressure drops significantly for an extended period, these cells in the kidney’s blood vessels produce renin to help stabilize it.
Researchers from the University of Virginia have previously been uncertain about which genes trigger this change in kidney muscle cells. According to a study published in the journal Hypertension, the team investigated the biological processes involved in renin production and identified nine genes that play crucial roles in three key processes.
The researchers explained that these genes serve as dual-function switches, prompting muscle cells to stop producing renin and then restart when needed. Jason P. Smith, a senior scientist in the pediatrics department at the University of Virginia, noted that while these cells naturally stop producing renin, they remain ready to spring back into action when required.
