Angiotensin II and endothelin induce inflammation and thereby promote hypertension-induced end-organ damage

Angiotensin (Ang) II and endothelin (ET-1) can both be regulated by NF-kappaB. They are, to variable degrees, also capable of activating NF-kappaB and increase the expression of NF-kappaB-dependent genes. Ang II-related vascular effects are in part mediated by ET-1. Nitric oxide synthase inhibition facilitates Ang II-related effects, which can be inhibited both by AT1-receptor blockers and by endothelin system inhibitors. This state-of-affairs supports the notion that a combined therapeutic strategy of inhibiting Ang II and ET-1 generation or blocking their effects at the receptor level would be superior to either strategy alone. Animal studies are encouraging but not without conflicting results. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and AT1-receptor blockers have a superb track record in experimental animal models and in a host of clinical studies. Selective and nonselective blockers of the ET-1 receptors are important research tools and are also undergoing clinical trials. Inhibitors of the endothelin-converting enzyme have been developed. The recent elucidation of the endothelin-converting enzyme's physical structure should facilitate the development of still more novel compounds to inhibit ET-1 generation. We have recently engendered supportive evidence in this regard.