The endothelin system. A new target for therapeutic intervention.

Since its identification in 1988,1 endothelin has attracted intensive interdisciplinary research interest because of its unique profile as an endothelium-derived vasoactive factor with a powerful and characteristically long-lasting vasopressor activity. Indeed, in terms of cellular mechanisms of action, endothelin appears to be quite similar to many classic vasoconstrictor substances such as angiotensin II and norepinephrine. However, the slow time course of the regulatory mechanisms of its biosynthesis and secretion more resembles that of inflammatory cytokines, giving this family of small peptides a unique position within the realm of intercellular mediators with cardiovascular relevance.