A study has shown that a genetic variance in the promoter region of the NAD(P)H oxidase subunit p67phox is associated with higher promoter activity, which could contribute to enhanced salt sensitivity. Levels of p67phox were upregulated in an animal model of salt-sensitive hypertension, leading to an increase in NAD(P)H oxidase activity. By contrast, disruption of p67phox led to a reduction in oxidative stress, salt sensitivity and renal injury. p67phox may therefore represent a therapeutic target for salt-sensitive hypertension.