Endothelin and oxidative stress in the vascular system.
Both endothelin(ET)-1 and oxidative stress have been the subjects of intense investigation within the cardiovascular field over the past decade and a half, yet little is known about the precise relationship between these important modulators of vascular function. There is a firm evidence that ET-1 can stimulate the production of superoxide via NADPH oxidase activation, and at the same time, reactive oxygen species appear to stimulate ET-1 production. What is less clear is how these changes participate in the pathogenesis of vascular dysfunction. There is mixed evidence on whether oxidative stress plays a role in ET-dependent hypertension, however, a specific influence of ET-induced oxidative stress to reduce vascular reactivity is more convincing. The current review summarizes recent investigations into the relationship between ET-1 and oxidative stress and highlights several areas that require further investigation.
Pollock
David M
DM
Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, GA 30912-2500, USA. dpollock@mcg.edu
Pollock
Jennifer S
JS
D000818:Animals; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000378:metabolism*; D065128:Endothelin Receptor Antagonists; D019332:Endothelin-1 / Q000378:metabolism*; D004730:Endothelium, Vascular / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000378:metabolism; D018384:Oxidative Stress; D013481:Superoxides / Q000378:metabolism*
D065128:Endothelin Receptor Antagonists; D019332:Endothelin-1; D013481:Superoxides