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Endothelin: a new cardiovascular regulatory peptide
A Lerman1, F L Hildebrand, K B Margulies
1Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905.
Mayo Clinic Proceedings
|November 1, 1990
Summary
Endothelin, a potent vasoconstrictor peptide from endothelial cells, impacts blood pressure and kidney function. Elevated plasma endothelin levels are linked to cardiovascular diseases.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Endothelin is a potent vasoconstrictor peptide produced by endothelial cells.
- It exhibits greater potency than previously known vasoconstrictors.
- Endothelin plays a role in regulating vascular tone.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the molecular biologic features and physiologic actions of endothelin.
- To explore endothelin's role in regulating vascular tone in normal and pathophysiologic states.
- To summarize current knowledge on endothelin's systemic and local functions.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on endothelin.
- Analysis of in vitro studies on vascular smooth muscle contraction.
- In vivo studies investigating hemodynamic and excretory functions.
- Radioimmunoassay for detecting circulating endothelin in human plasma.
Main Results:
- Endothelin causes potent contraction of vascular strips in vitro.
- In vivo, pharmacologic doses induce prolonged pressor response and impair renal function.
- Endothelin stimulates aldosterone release and inhibits renin release in vitro.
- Circulating endothelin is detectable in human plasma, with elevated levels in cardiovascular diseases.
Conclusions:
- Endothelin is a significant regulator of vascular tone.
- Its local and systemic actions have implications for cardiovascular health.
- Further research into endothelin's role in disease states is warranted.