Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine have identified a link between the G alpha i-2 sub-unit protein pathway in the brain and renal excretion of sodium. They found that changes in salt intake affected changes in G alpha i-2 sub-unit protein levels and were able to prove that the protein pathway plays an important role in calming the renal sympathetic nervous system and facilitating the elimination of salt through the kidneys. The discovery points to a promising new target for treating salt-sensitive hypertension.
Source:
Researcher Finds Link Between Brain Signaling and Renal Function, Medical News Today, June 7, 2012