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Endothelin-receptor antagonists in arterial hypertension: further indications?

Isabella Sudano1, Matthias Hermann, Frank T Ruschitzka

  • 1Department of Cardiology, University Hospital, Rämistrasse 100, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland.

Current Hypertension Reports
|March 17, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Endothelin-receptor antagonists show potential for managing hypertension and related conditions. Clinical trials indicate moderate blood pressure reduction, with ongoing research exploring broader cardiovascular benefits.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Pharmacology
  • Endothelin Signaling Pathway

Background:

  • Endothelin-1 (ET-1) contributes to cardiovascular disease through vasoconstriction, inflammation, and fibrosis.
  • ET-1's multifaceted role impacts the heart, kidneys, and blood vessels, suggesting therapeutic targets.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the potential of endothelin-receptor antagonists (ERAs) in managing hypertension and associated cardiovascular complications.
  • To explore the blood pressure-independent effects of ERAs on cardiovascular growth, inflammation, and fibrosis.

Main Methods:

  • Review of clinical trial evidence for ERAs in hypertension.
  • Analysis of established therapies for pulmonary hypertension and their potential application in arterial hypertension.

Main Results:

  • First clinical trial evidence shows moderate blood pressure reduction in patients with essential and resistant hypertension.
  • ERAs are established therapy for pulmonary hypertension, suggesting potential broader cardiovascular applications.

Conclusions:

  • Endothelin antagonism offers therapeutic potential for hypertension, atherosclerosis, diabetes, and chronic renal failure.
  • Further large-scale randomized trials are needed to confirm clinical benefits of ERAs beyond blood pressure reduction in arterial hypertension.

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