RNA-Seq of Sprague Dawley Rat Skin Treated with Aldosterone or Vehicle on High-Salt Diet for 2 or 14 Days

This study investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying salt-sensitive hypertension in a model of primary aldosteronism using RNA-Seq analysis of Sprague Dawley rat skin. Unilaterally nephrectomized rats were treated with aldosterone or vehicle and fed a high-salt or low-salt diet. Tissue electrolytes were quantified using atomic absorption spectrometry, and gene expression profiles were analyzed using RNA-Seq. Key findings include a reduction in plasma, carcass, and skin potassium concentrations in aldosterone-treated rats on a high-salt diet before significant increases in mean arterial pressure and systemic vascular resistance. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) revealed altered expression of genes involved in hyperosmotic response and monovalent inorganic anion homeostasis prior to hypertension onset, and in myofibril assembly, skeletal muscle contraction, and histone methylation after hypertension establishment. These data provide insights into the role of tissue electrolyte imbalance and related gene expression changes in the pathogenesis of salt-sensitive hypertension.