Oxidative stress and mild hypertension

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a crucial role in development of hypertension. An increase in production of superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide, reduction of nitric oxide synthesis, and a decrease in bioavailability of antioxidants have been demonstrated in human hypertension. Oxidative stress resulted in vascular injury, renal dysfunction, and hypertensive end-organ damage. However, recent clinical trials failed to show cardiovascular benefits of antioxidants. Furthermore, none of the large clinical trials were designed to demonstrate effects of specific antioxidants on blood pressure and development of mild hypertension. Research of ROS, oxidative stress, redox signaling, and hypertension is more important than ever. The role of oxidative stress in the development of mild hypertension will need to be undertaken.