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Updated: Jun 2, 2026
08:58
En Face Detection of Nitric Oxide and Superoxide in Endothelial Layer of Intact Arteries
Published on: February 25, 2016
Oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction in hypertension.
Eberhard Schulz1, Tommaso Gori, Thomas Münzel
1II. Medizinische Klinik, Universitätsmedizin Mainz, Kardiologie, Angiologie und Internistische Intensivmedizin, Mainz, Germany.
Summary
Systemic arterial hypertension, a major cardiovascular risk factor, is increasingly common. This review details how oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction contribute to hypertension development.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Molecular Biology
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- Systemic arterial hypertension is a prevalent cardiovascular risk factor associated with significant morbidity and mortality.
- Hypertension is exacerbated by lifestyle factors like sedentary habits and obesity, often remaining asymptomatic and unrecognized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the molecular mechanisms underlying hypertension development.
- To emphasize the roles of oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction in hypertension.
Main Methods:
- Review of current scientific literature on hypertension pathophysiology.
- Analysis of molecular pathways involving sympathetic nervous system, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, and inflammatory mediators.
- Examination of the role of oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction.
Main Results:
- Hypertension involves complex interactions of vascular effectors leading to vasoconstriction, inflammation, and atherosclerotic lesions.
- Oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction are consistently observed and play a causal role in hypertension.
- Reactive oxygen species (ROS) impact vascular function and tone via mechanisms including nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the molecular mechanisms of hypertension, particularly oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction, is crucial for managing this widespread condition.
- Key ROS-producing enzymes implicated include NADPH oxidase, xanthine oxidase, mitochondrial respiratory chain, and uncoupled endothelial NO synthase.
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