The Impact of Cytomegalovirus Seropositivity on RAAS Biomarkers in Hypertensive and Normotensive Individuals | ||
| Egyptian Journal of Medical Microbiology | ||
| Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 01 April 2026 | ||
| Document Type: New and original researches in the field of Microbiology. | ||
| DOI: 10.21608/ejmm.2025.415457.1836 | ||
| Authors | ||
| Jasim M. Muhsin* 1; Zainab J. Fadhil2; Shrooq A. Hussein1 | ||
| 1College of Health and Medical Techniques, Middle Technical University (MTU), Baghdad, Iraq | ||
| 2Al-Iraqia University, College of Medicine, Department of Microbiology), Baghdad, Iraq | ||
| Abstract | ||
| Background: The renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) plays a critical role in blood pressure regulation and cardiovascular homeostasis. Disruptions in RAAS biomarkers have been linked to hypertension. Additionally, cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection has been implicated in modulating immune and vascular functions, potentially influencing RAAS activity. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of CMV infection, hypertension status, and gender on RAAS biomarker levels, and to identify predictors of RAAS imbalance, particularly the Ang II/1–7 ratio. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 226 participants (143 CMV-positive, 83 CMV-negative), including hypertensive and normotensive individuals. Biomarkers measured included ACE, ACE2, Ang II, Ang 1–7, and the Ang II/1–7 ratio. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Version 27. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, independent t-tests, multiple linear regression, and subgroup analyses were performed. Results: Hypertensive and CMV-positive participants showed significantly higher ACE and Ang II levels and lower ACE2 and Ang 1–7 levels compared to controls and CMV-negative individuals (p < 0.05). Males also exhibited a more pro-hypertensive RAAS profile than females. Multiple regression revealed CMV status, ACE, and ACE2 levels as significant predictors of the Ang II/1–7 ratio (p < 0.01), indicating a combined effect on RAAS imbalance. Conclusions: CMV infection is associated with adverse RAAS biomarker shifts, particularly in hypertensive individuals, suggesting a possible synergistic effect on cardiovascular risk. Gender and CMV status should be considered in RAAS-targeted hypertension management and future research. | ||
| Keywords | ||
| cytomegalovirus; Hypertensive; Normotensive; renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system | ||
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