Autophagy and Hypertension

Hypertension is recognized as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Recently, there is increasing interest in the role of autophagy in the physiological and pathological progress of hypertension. Autophagy, a dynamic cellular self-degradative process, occurs in the pathogenesis of hypertension, such as endothelial function, vascular smooth muscle cell function, and vascular inflammation. Although alterations in autophagic activity have been implicated, controversies remain in the pathophysiologic role of autophagy during the process of hypertension. Moreover, recent insights indicate targeting autophagy as a potential strategy for therapeutic benefit for hypertension. In this chapter, we review basic concepts about autophagy and hypertension, highlight the evidence for altered autophagy activity, and discuss the current understanding of the role of autophagy in hypertensive heart disease.