Endothelin-1 and Human Platelets

Authors: Jagroop, I. A.; Daskalopoulou, Stella S.; Mikhailidis, Dimitri P.

Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology, Volume 3, Number 4, October 2005 , pp. 393-399(7)

Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers

Buy & download fulltext article:

Price: $63.10 plus tax (Refund Policy)

Abstract:

There is conflicting evidence regarding the effect of endothelin-1 (ET-1) on platelets. Some studies show that ET-1 activates platelets, others show platelet inhibition with ET-1 and some studies did not detect an effect of ET-1. These conflicting results may be due to complex interactions between platelet ETA and ETB receptors.

ET-1 antagonism may emerge as an important therapeutic strategy in the management of several vascular disorders. However, to date the only prescribed ET-1 antagonist is bosentan for pulmonary arterial hypertension. Bosentan is a 'dual' ET- 1 antagonist (i.e. it acts on both ETA and ETB receptors). Whether this action involves an effect on platelets remains to be established.

In this review some of the studies describing the effect of ET-1 on human platelets are discussed. Vascular diseases where ET-1 is implicated are also considered.

Keywords: endothelin; platelet; bosentan; pulmonary hypertension; vascular disease

Document Type: Review article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/157016105774329453

Affiliations: 1: Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Royal Free University College Medical School, Royal Free Campus, Pond Street, London, NW3 2QG UK.

Publication date: 2005-10-01

More about this publication?

Vascular disease is the commonest cause of death in Westernized countries and its incidence is on the increase in developing countries. It follows that considerable research is directed at establishing effective treatment for acute vascular events. Long-term treatment has also received considerable attention (e.g. for symptomatic relief). Furthermore, effective prevention, whether primary or secondary, is backed by the findings of several landmark trials.

Vascular disease is a complex field with primary care physicians and nurse practitioners as well as several specialties involved. The latter include cardiology, vascular and cardio thoracic surgery, general medicine, radiology, clinical pharmacology and neurology (stroke units). Current Vascular Pharmacology will publish reviews to update all those concerned with the treatment of vascular disease. For example, reviews commenting on recently published trials or new drugs will be included. In addition to clinically relevant topics we will consider 'research-based' reviews dealing with future developments and potential drug targets. Therefore, another function of Current Vascular Pharmacology is to bridge the gap between clinical practice and ongoing research.

Debates will also be encouraged in the correspondence section of this journal.

Endothelin-1 and Human Platelets

Buy & download fulltext article:

Tools

Key

Text size:

Useful pages