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Updated: May 29, 2026
10:08
Measuring Ascending Aortic Stiffness In Vivo in Mice Using Ultrasound
Published on: December 2, 2014
Pharmacological modulation of arterial stiffness
Pierre Boutouyrie1, Patrick Lacolley, Marie Briet
1HEGP, Assistance-publique Hpitaux de Paris, INSERM U970, Universit Paris Descartes, France. Pierre.boutouyrie@egp.aphp.fr
Drugs
|September 10, 2011
Summary
Arterial stiffness, a key cardiovascular risk marker, is influenced by genetics, age, and pressure. While some drugs affect stiffness,
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Vascular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Arterial stiffness is a significant indicator of cardiovascular risk across diverse populations.
- It reflects the cumulative impact of cardiovascular risk factors on large arteries, influenced by genetic factors.
- Arterial stiffness is determined by arterial wall composition and arrangement, measurable non-invasively in humans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of arterial stiffness as a cardiovascular risk marker.
- To discuss factors influencing arterial stiffness, including age, pressure, and genetics.
- To examine the impact of various drugs on arterial stiffness and its therapeutic potential.
Main Methods:
- Non-invasive assessment of arterial stiffness in human subjects.
- Review of clinical trial data and pharmacological studies.
- Analysis of factors affecting arterial wall composition and function.
Main Results:
- Age and distending pressure are primary determinants of large artery stiffness.
- Antihypertensive medications (e.g., RAAS blockers), hormone replacement therapy, and glitazones can independently affect arterial stiffness.
- Advanced glycation endproduct cross-link breakers show promise for reducing arterial stiffness.
Conclusions:
- Arterial stiffness is a crucial, non-invasively assessed marker of cardiovascular risk.
- While several drug classes impact arterial stiffness, its confirmation as a therapeutic target requires further evidence.
- Targeting arterial stiffness reduction, particularly with cross-link breakers, represents a promising therapeutic avenue.
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