Relationship between endothelial function and fibrinolysis in early hypertension

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Metabolic Disorders
• Hematology

Background:

• Hypertension is associated with dysregulated fibrinolysis, impaired endothelial function, and abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism.
• Understanding the interconnections between these factors is crucial for managing hypertensive patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationships between fibrinolytic factors, glucose/lipid metabolism, and endothelial function in hypertension.
• To evaluate the effects of benazepril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, on these parameters.

Main Methods:

• Measured plasma levels of tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) and plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1) in hypertensive patients and controls.
• Assessed insulin sensitivity via oral glucose tolerance test and endothelial function using brachial artery ultrasonography.
• Analyzed correlations using stepwise multiple regression and evaluated benazepril's effects over 20 weeks.

Main Results:

• Elevated t-PA and PAI-1 levels were observed in hypertensive patients.
• PAI-1 correlated with insulin sensitivity, total cholesterol, and triglycerides.
• Endothelial function was negatively correlated with t-PA activity and antigen.
• Benazepril treatment improved insulin sensitivity, endothelial function, and t-PA levels.

Conclusions:

• Abnormalities in fibrinolysis are linked to endothelial dysfunction and metabolic disturbances in hypertension.
• Benazepril treatment demonstrates potential in improving fibrinolytic and endothelial function impairments in hypertensive individuals.