Functional heterogeneity in primary aldosteronism at single-cell level

Thissinergia project is carried out in collaboration with the groups of Prof. Felix Beuschlein and Prof. Mark Robinson:

Arterial hypertension is a major health risk, affecting about 20% of people and increasing with age. Primary aldosteronism (PA) is a common cause of secondary hypertension, driven by excess aldosterone from the adrenal glands, often due to small tumors or overgrowth. Recently, tiny aldosterone-producing nodules have been found in older adults, likely contributing to age-related hypertension. Genetic mutations affecting ion channels often cause cells to overproduce aldosterone.

This study aims to overcome these barriers by investigating the relationship between genetic mutations and cellular behavior in adrenal gland cells. We will use advanced techniques to study the genetic and functional profiles of cells taken from patients who have had their adrenal glands removed. Specifically, we will correlate mutations in ion channels and transporters with gene expression and measure cell behavior using automated patch clamping. The goal is to deepen our understanding of how aldosterone production is regulated in both normal and disease states, which could improve our understanding of PA and age-related hypertension.