Dual angiotensin II and endothelin receptor antagonists

Endothelin and angiotensin II are potent vasoconstrictor substances that also can exert proliferative and proinflammatory effects. Dysregulation of these systems can induce or mediate endothelial dysfunction and organ damage in systemic hypertension. Dual-acting angiotensin II and endothelin receptor blockers have been shown to reduce systemic blood pressure in animal models and in hypertensive patients. Preliminary data in smaller human studies have shown that these agents are safe and well tolerated. Larger randomized trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of these agents are underway and show potential as a new class of antihypertensives.