"We now have evidence that brain ACE2 plays a critical role in baroreceptor reflex function and, consequently, in the prevention of hypertension," says Dr. Xia.

First, the researchers demonstrated that chronically hypertensive mice showed dramatically decreased baroreceptor reflex sensitivity and ACE2 activity.

Beat-to-beat short term regulation of blood pressure is provided by a spontaneous reflex called the baroreceptor reflex.