Formation by the endothelium of prostacyclin, nitric oxide and endothelin

Prostacyclin and nitric oxide (NO) are two labile vasorelaxant and anti-aggregatory substances which are released by receptor activation and in response to shear forces acting on endothelial cells, whereas the potent constrictor peptide, endothelin-1 (ET-1) is probably slowly released and exerts long-term control over the cardiovascular system. This review deals with the synthesis, release and pharmacological actions of prostacyclin, NO and ET-1, as well as the diseases which might result from their under- or over-production.