POTS Research both Past and Future with Dr. Satish Raj

In this episode of the Standing Up to POTS podcast, Dr. Satish Raj discusses his insights into significant areas of POTS research, including blood volume regulation, autoimmunity, and the norepinephrine transporter. Dr. Raj emphasizes the heterogeneity of POTS and the challenges that come with its variable nature. He talks about early findings in low blood volume in POTS patients and an aldosterone paradox, where levels are unexpectedly low. Dr. Raj also explores the historical and current research on norepinephrine transporter deficiencies and autoantibodies, both of which have shown potential links to POTS symptoms such as hyperadrenergic states. Dr. Raj highlights the complexity of unraveling these underlying mechanisms, acknowledging the need for targeted treatments. He discusses the influence of comorbidities like EDS and MCAS, and emphasizes the necessity for rigorous research to clarify POTS's diverse presentations and treatment responses. Looking forward, Dr. Raj stresses the need for POTS research to advance in concrete testing and understanding of the condition’s pathophysiology to better inform treatment strategies.