Endothelial dysfunction is one of the main characteristics of chronic hypertension and it is characterized by impaired nitric oxide\n(NO) bioactivity determined by increased levels of reactive oxygen species. Endothelial function is usually evaluated by measuring\nthe vasodilation induced by the local NO production stimulated by external mechanical or pharmacological agent. These vascular\nreactivity tests may be carried out in different models of experimental hypertension such as NO-deficient rats, spontaneously\nhypertensive rats, salt-sensitive rats, and many others. Wire myograph and pressurized myograph are the principal methods used\nfor vascular studies. Usually, increasing concentrations of the vasodilator acetylcholine are added in cumulative manner to perform\nendothelium-dependent concentration-response curves. Analysis of vascular mechanics is relevant to identify arterial stiffness.\nBoth endothelial dysfunction and vascular stiffness have been shown to be associated with increased cardiovascular risk.
Loading....