New Study Reveals Dietary Solution for Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension is a condition in which high blood pressure affects the vessels of the lungs as they become hard over time. It usually increases the risk of death as it causes lung diseases and heart failure. The reason why these blood vessels become hard was unknown until now. But researchers from the University of Pittsburgh have revealed why this happens. 

This research was published in the journal Cell Metabolism and revealed that the cells in the blood vessels of people with pulmonary hypertension consume two amino acids called glutamine and serine. When they consume these two amino acids, they produce more amino acids called proline and glycine. These amino acids play an important role in the formation of collagen- a protein that provides a structural framework for skin, bones, and muscles. This excessive production of collagen protein makes the blood vessels of the lungs harder. 

Researchers tried to understand whether a diet that is low in glutamine and serine works in mice with pulmonary hypertension. When they noticed the results, they found that this diet worked effectively and helped reduce the production of collagen protein. So, people with pulmonary hypertension should avoid food that contains glutamine and serine. This will help medications work better to reduce the risk of lung diseases and heart failure.  

Researchers also developed a test called positron emission tomography (PET) scan to diagnose pulmonary hypertension earlier. This test traces glutamine and serine where they are going in the body. This will help healthcare professionals trace these amino acids to prevent their consumption by the blood vessels of the lungs.  

The results of this study show glutamine and serine can produce excessive collagen protein that makes blood vessels of the lungs harder and causes pulmonary hypertension. So, healthcare professionals should suggest people not eat food that contains these amino acids. This research will help people with pulmonary hypertension as it can save their lives. 

Reference Link:  

Nesrine S. Rachedi et al, Dietary intake and glutamine-serine metabolism control pathologic vascular stiffness, Cell Metabolism (2024).  

DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2024.04.010