[Endothelin--a vasoactive peptide of endothelial cells]

Endothelin is a recently discovered peptide which is formed in the endothelial layer of the vascular wall and is released, following different stimuli, into the neighbouring smooth muscle layer of blood vessels and into the vascular lumen. By its effects on the regulation of the vascular tonus endothelin could play a part in regulating the function of various organ systems. The submitted paper gives a brief account on contemporary knowledge regarding the formation, elimination and biological effects of endothelin. The authors discuss also the potential physiological and pathophysiological role of this peptide.