The endothelin system in human saphenous vein graft disease.
Saphenous vein graft stenosis is a significant clinical complication for coronary artery bypass patients. Endothelin-1, a peptide synthesised by vascular endothelial cells, is the most potent known vasoconstrictor and has mitogenic properties. Recent advances in our knowledge of endothelin-1 synthesis and endothelin receptor expression and function in normal and atherosclerotic human saphenous vein imply a role for the peptide in the progression of vein graft failure. Manipulation of the endothelin system, by selective receptor antagonism or inhibition of the specific endothelin-converting enzymes may, therefore, represent a novel therapeutic target for treating vein graft disease.
Davenport
A P
AP
Clinical Pharmacology Unit, University of Cambridge, Centre for Clinical Investigation, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK. apd10@medschl.cam.ac.uk
Maguire
J J
JJ
D000818:Animals; D016282:Aspartic Acid Endopeptidases / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D001026:Coronary Artery Bypass / Q000009:adverse effects; D065128:Endothelin Receptor Antagonists; D000072396:Endothelin-Converting Enzymes; D016232:Endothelins / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology*; D004730:Endothelium, Vascular / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology; D006083:Graft Occlusion, Vascular / Q000209:etiology / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology*; D006801:Humans; D006965:Hyperplasia; D008666:Metalloendopeptidases; D009131:Muscle, Smooth, Vascular / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology; D017466:Receptors, Endothelin / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D012501:Saphenous Vein / Q000637:transplantation*; D017539:Tunica Intima / Q000473:pathology
D065128:Endothelin Receptor Antagonists; D016232:Endothelins; D017466:Receptors, Endothelin; D016282:Aspartic Acid Endopeptidases; D008666:Metalloendopeptidases; D000072396:Endothelin-Converting Enzymes