Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 21, 2026

Ultrasound Assessment of Endothelial Function: A Technical Guideline of the Flow-mediated Dilation Test
Published on: April 27, 2016
Inflammation and endothelial dysfunction as therapeutic targets in patients with heart failure
Dimitris Tousoulis1, Marietta Charakida, Christodoulos Stefanadis
1Cardiology Unit, Hippokration Hospital, Athens University Medical School, S. Karagiorga Street 69, 166 75 Glifada Athens, Greece. drtousoulis@hotmail.com
Abstract:
Evidence suggests that vascular endothelium plays key role in the regulation of vascular tone, in the process of inflammation and in the thrombotic mechanisms. Recent studies indicate that it is an important component of the pathophysiological mechanisms of heart failure. Heart failure may induce endothelial dysfunction by different mechanisms, such as reduced synthesis and release of nitric oxide (NO), increased degradation of NO or by increased production of endothelin-1. In addition, endothelial dysfunction has been associated with the progression of heart failure. Alterations in neurotransmitters, hormones and also in physiological stimuli are present in heart failure and affect the vascular endothelium. Treatments with beneficial effects on endothelial dysfunction may also improve prognosis in patients with heart failure.
Related Concept Videos
Pathophysiology of Heart Failure
Heart Failure Drugs: Inhibitors of Renin-Angiotensin System
Heart Failure II: Pathophysiology
Heart Failure V: Medical Management
Heart Failure VI: Adjunct Therapies
Heart Failure VII: Nursing Interventions

