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Published on: December 5, 2017
From ABCD to E for endothelin in resistant hypertension
George R Abraham1, Anthony P Davenport2
1Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK; Division of Experimental Medicine and Immunotherapeutics, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK.
Insights
Endothelin-1, a vasoconstrictor, regulates vascular tone. Endothelin receptor antagonists show promise for treating resistant hypertension, potentially marking a new clinical era.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Pharmacology
- Hypertension Research
Background:
- Endothelin-1 is a potent vasoconstrictor peptide regulating vascular tone.
- Pharmacological blockade of the endothelin-1 pathway has limited established clinical applications.
- Resistant hypertension remains a significant clinical challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of endothelin receptor antagonists in patients with resistant hypertension.
- To explore the potential of targeting the endothelin-1 pathway for hypertension management.
Main Methods:
- A recent clinical trial investigating endothelin receptor antagonists was analyzed.
- The study focused on patients with treatment-resistant hypertension.
Main Results:
- The clinical trial demonstrated a potential new role for endothelin receptor antagonists.
- Findings suggest these antagonists may be effective in managing resistant hypertension.
Conclusions:
- Endothelin receptor antagonists may transition into mainstream clinical practice for resistant hypertension.
- Targeting the endothelin-1 pathway represents a promising therapeutic strategy.
Abstract:
The potent vasoconstrictor peptide endothelin-1 has long been recognized as a physiological regulator of vascular tone. However, pharmacological blockade of the endothelin-1 pathway has few proven indications thus far. A recent clinical trial for resistant hypertension published in The Lancet may yet herald a new era for endothelin receptor antagonists into the clinical mainstream.
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