Endothelium-dependent responses and inhibition of angiotensin-converting enzyme

Abstract

Experimental and clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of inhibitors of angiotensin-converting enzyme in a variety of cardiovascular diseases. Both structural and functional improvements have been reported. Hypertension, atheroclerosis, congestive heart failure or aging are accompanied by endothelial dysfunctions. The vasoactive endothelium-derived relaxing factors such as: nitric oxide, endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor and prostacyclin could be involved depending on the pathology. Some of the beneficial effects of angiotensin converting inhibitors may be due to the augmented release of these endothelial factors resulting from the protection of locally produced bradykinin, particularly at the endothelial level.