Endothel-derived relaxating factor and hypertension
Abstract
Endothelial dysfunction has been observed during chronic hypertension. Dilatation of various arteries in response to several endothelium-dependent agonist, including acetylcholine, is impaired in experimental models of chronic hypertension. Dilatation of the various arteries in response to endothelium-independent agonist, such as nitroglycerin, is remained. During chronic hypertension the impairment of endothelium-dependent responses of various arteries may be related to the reduced production or activity of EDRF or the production of an EDCF.