Here we show that the exaggerated pressor response to either static contraction (EPR activation) or passive stretch (a pure mechanical stimulus) observed in CHF rats was significantly attenuated by chronic epidural delivery of anti-BDNF to the lumbar DRGs whereas this intervention had no effect on the pressor response to hindlimb arterial injection of capsaicin (metaboreflex activation) (Figure 3), suggesting that increased BDNF in lumbar DRGs contributes to the exaggerated EPR by sensitizing the mechanical afferent limb in CHF rats. This evidence concerns the gene BDNF and congestive heart failure.