Therapeutic Targeting of Bilateral Primary Aldosteronism: From Molecular Mechanisms to Precision Therapies for the Most Common Cause of Secondary Hypertension
High blood pressure is often caused by excess aldosterone, a hormone from the adrenal glands that regulates salt and water balance. This condition, called primary aldosteronism (PA), may affect one or both glands. The former is typically cured by removing the overactive gland, while the latter requires lifelong medications with significant side effects. Although poorly characterised, recent research suggests small clusters of genetically altered adrenal cells drive the bilateral form. This work will: 1) assess the safety and efficacy of adrenal surgery for bilateral PA; 2) refine diagnostic tools to detect early disease; 3) develop therapies to directly target the root cause of aldosterone overproduction. This could transform care by replacing lifelong medications with personalised, curative approaches, improving quality of life and reducing the burden of this underdiagnosed condition.