What are the potential implications of the study's findings?

The researchers believe the early cellular and molecular changes in the brain due to hypertension could provide clues for blocking the neurodegeneration seen in disorders like Alzheimer's disease.

Why do hypertension medications not always improve brain function?

The study suggests that factors beyond just elevated blood pressure may be involved, as hypertension medications can lower blood pressure without necessarily improving brain function.

Home / Health / Hypertension Damages Brain Cells Before Blood Pressure Rises, Mice Study Finds

Hypertension Damages Brain Cells Before Blood Pressure Rises, Mice Study Finds

Q: How does hypertension affect the brain cells in mice?

According to the study, hypertension induced early changes in gene expression in three key brain cell types - endothelial cells, interneurons, and oligodendrocytes - even before blood pressure increased.

17 Nov

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Summary

Hypertension can impair brain cells responsible for cognition before blood pressure increases
Hypertension induces early changes in gene expression in brain cells, interfering with thinking and memory
Hypertension may lead to neurodegeneration seen in disorders like Alzheimer's

According to a study published in the journal Neuron on November 17, 2025, hypertension can start impairing the brain's major cells responsible for cognition well before blood pressure increases. Researchers from Weill Cornell Medical College say this finding could help explain how hypertension is a major risk factor for cognitive impairment.

The study found that just three days after inducing hypertension in mice, the gene expression in three key brain cell types - endothelial cells, interneurons, and oligodendrocytes - dramatically changed, before any measurable increase in blood pressure. Endothelial cells lining blood vessels showed signs of premature aging, while interneurons regulating nerve signals were damaged, leading to an imbalance. Oligodendrocytes also failed to properly express genes needed to maintain the myelin sheath protecting neurons.