Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 22, 2025
06:35
Ultrasound Assessment of Endothelial Function: A Technical Guideline of the Flow-mediated Dilation Test
Published on: April 27, 2016
17.7K
Endothelium-Derived Relaxing Factors and Endothelial Function: A Systematic Review
Francesco Nappi1, Antonio Fiore2, Joyce Masiglat2
1Department of Cardiac Surgery, Centre Cardiologique du Nord, 93200 Saint-Denis, France.
Biomedicines
|November 11, 2022
Summary
The endothelium regulates vascular tone and homeostasis. Dysregulation contributes to atherosclerosis, but factors like shear stress offer therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Biology
- Cardiovascular Research
- Endothelial Function
Background:
- The endothelium is crucial for maintaining vascular tone and homeostasis.
- It releases mediators that influence vascular smooth muscle.
- Reactive oxygen species (ROS) can harm endothelial function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the role of endothelial factors in vascular health.
- To investigate emerging modulators of endothelial function.
- To explore links between endothelial function and atherosclerosis.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of 530 citations, with 35 studies included.
- Focused analysis on reactive oxygen species (ROS), perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT), shear stress, AMP-activated protein kinase, potassium channels, bone morphogenic protein 4, and P2Y2 receptor.
- Evaluation of study endpoints related to endothelial function and atherosclerosis.
Main Results:
- Reactive oxygen species (ROS) demonstrate deleterious effects, particularly in obese and elderly populations.
- Shear stress-induced endothelial nitric oxide (NO) may delay atherosclerosis development.
- Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) can be protective but may become pathological in obesity.
Conclusions:
- Endothelial function is vital for homeostasis; dysregulation contributes to atherogenesis.
- Emerging modulators of endothelial function present potential therapeutic targets.
- Targeting specific factors could offer future treatment options for atherosclerosis.
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