Sex-specific modulation of T-type voltage-gated calcium channels in the renal artery of hypertensive rats.

Introduction: Hypertension contributes to cardiovascular disease, with growing evidence of sex-specific differences in its underlying mechanisms. T-type voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) have emerged as key regulators of vascular tone, particularly under conditions of nitric oxide (NO) deficiency. However, their role in mediating vascular dysfunction across sexes remains poorly understood. Methods: This study examined the role of T-type VGCCs and their modulation by NO in the renal artery of male and female spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Vascular reactivity was assessed through phenylephrine-induced contractions in the presence or absence of nickel chloride (NiCl Results: Hypertension induced a rightward shift of the acetylcholine-mediated vasorelaxation curve. In male rats, hypertension did not significantly alter the phenylephrine concentration-response curve. A single data point showed a significant difference following incubation with L-NAME. The contribution of T-type VGCCs to vascular reactivity remained unchanged. Male SHRs displayed increased mRNA expression of Ca Discussion: These findings reveal sex-specific differences in the role of T-type VGCCs during hypertension and underscore the therapeutic potential of targeting T-type VGCCs, particularly in females, as a sex-specific strategy for more effective and personalized hypertension management.