Endothelin-1
Endothelin-1
Endothelin-1 (pronunciation: en·do·the·lin-1, /ˌɛndoʊˈθiːlɪn 1/) is a potent vasoconstrictor peptide produced by vascular endothelial cells.
Etymology
The term "Endothelin-1" is derived from the word "endothelium", which refers to the thin layer of simple squamous cells that lines the interior surface of blood vessels, and the number "1" indicating it is the first of its kind discovered.
Function
Endothelin-1 is one of the most potent vasoconstrictors known. It plays a key role in vascular homeostasis, regulating the contraction and relaxation of the smooth muscle in the walls of arteries, veins, and capillaries. It is also involved in the pathogenesis of diseases such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, and heart failure.
Related Terms
- Endothelin: A family of proteins that includes Endothelin-1, Endothelin-2, and Endothelin-3.
- Vasoconstriction: The narrowing of the blood vessels resulting from contraction of the muscular wall of the vessels.
- Vascular endothelial cells: The cells that line the interior surface of blood vessels.
- Hypertension: A condition in which the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high.
- Atherosclerosis: A disease in which plaque builds up inside your arteries.
- Heart failure: A chronic, progressive condition in which the heart muscle is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs for blood and oxygen.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Endothelin-1
- Wikipedia's article - Endothelin-1
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