title: New basic science initiatives with the angiotensin II receptor blocker valsartan.
abstract: Angiotensin II (Ang II) plays a key role in the regulation of blood pressure and fluid homeostasis. Valsartan is a highly selective Ang II receptor blocker that specifically and selectively blocks Ang II at the AT1-receptor. In animal models, valsartan has shown positive effects on vasoconstriction, proliferation, remodelling, endothelial function and thrombogenesis, inflammation and atherosclerosis. These data are likely to be confirmed by the results of current clinical trials and valsartan is set to provide improved cardiovascular therapy in the future.
authors.affiliation: Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland. m.de_gasparo@bluewin.ch.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: de Gasparo
mesh_terms: D047228:Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Blockers / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000818:Animals; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D050197:Atherosclerosis / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000473:pathology; D049109:Cell Proliferation / Q000187:drug effects; D004730:Endothelium, Vascular / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D007249:Inflammation / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology; D013777:Tetrazoles / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D014633:Valine / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000068756:Valsartan; D014661:Vasoconstriction / Q000187:drug effects; D020257:Ventricular Remodeling / Q000187:drug effects
chemical_list: D047228:Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Blockers; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents; D013777:Tetrazoles; D000068756:Valsartan; D014633:Valine