Nitric oxide mechanisms in the pathogenesis of global risk.
Identification and management of cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia, is essential not only for prevention of cardiovascular disease, but also for slowing the progression of existing cardiovascular disease. A major underlying mechanism that links various cardiovascular risk factors and manifestations of cardiovascular disease is endothelial dysfunction, characterized by impaired nitric oxide bioactivity. Oxidative stress is an important cause of impaired nitric oxide bioactivity, and a major pathogenic mechanism of atherosclerosis. Several pharmacologic therapies, including angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, statins, and the vasodilating beta blocker nebivolol, have been shown to enhance nitric oxide bioactivity and improve endothelial function. This effect may help explain the cardioprotective benefits of these agents and may stimulate further use of nitric oxide modulation for the treatment of cardiovascular risk factors and manifestations of cardiovascular disease.
Mason
R Preston
RP
Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA. rpmason@elucidaresearch.com
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000378:metabolism / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002121:Calcium Channel Blockers / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology; D042783:Endothelial Cells / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D009569:Nitric Oxide / Q000378:metabolism*; D018384:Oxidative Stress; D012307:Risk Factors
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors; D002121:Calcium Channel Blockers; D009569:Nitric Oxide