THE ROLE OF ENDOTHELIN-1 IN VASCULAR DYSREGULATION
Keywords:
еndothelin 1, vascular dysregulation, diseases, glaucomaAbstract
The aim of the present article is to summarize current evidence on the role of endothelin 1 (ET 1) in vascular dysregulation and its significance in ophthalmology, with a particular focus on glaucoma. This review is based on an analysis of published studies.
Endothelin 1 is a 21 amino acid peptide and one of the most potent endogenous vasoconstrictors. It was first isolated in 1988, when its chemical structure, gene sequence, and main pharmacological properties were described. Subsequently, two additional members of the endothelin family, endothelin 2 (ET 2) and endothelin
3 (ET 3), have been identified. These peptides share structural identities and have similar physiological functions.
Although ET 1 was originally considered to be produced exclusively by vascular endothelial cells, it is now recognized that numerous other cell types also synthesize this peptide, including vascular smooth muscle cells, cardiomyocytes, neurons, macrophages, leukocytes, mast cells, fibroblasts, and epithelial cells. ET 1 plays a key role in vascular regulation through its effects on vascular tone, local perfusion, cell proliferation, and inflammatory responses.
Abnormal ET 1 production and activity have been linked to several diseases associated with vascular dysregulation and endothelial dysfunction. Elevated ET 1 levels have been reported in systemic and pulmonary hypertension, as well as in diabetes mellitus. The association between elevated ET 1 levels and these conditions confirms its involvement in regulating vascular tonus, tissue perfusion, and microcirculation, as well as in the development of pathological vascular changes.
In recent years, growing evidence has highlighted the importance of ET 1 in ophthalmology, particularly in glaucoma. Normal tension glaucoma is associated with elevated plasma ET 1 levels compared with those observed in healthy individuals. Elevated ET 1 levels are considered to impair ocular vascular regulation, reduce blood supply to the optic nerve, and contribute to glaucomatous damage. Increased ET 1 levels have also been reported in the aqueous humor and tear film of patients with glaucoma, further supporting its involvement in the pathogenesis of the disease. Current evidence suggests that ET 1 is a promising biomarker and a potential therapeutic target in glaucoma. Further understanding of its physiological effects and interactions with other mechanisms involved in the disease may contribute to the development of more precise diagnostic approaches and new therapeutic strategies
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