Potential role of endothelin in hypertension. Controversy on endothelin in hypertension.

The hallmark of hypertension is an increase in peripheral vascular resistance. This increase is considered to be related to an increase in tone of resistance arteries as well as to structural changes (i.e., vascular remodeling) of these blood vessels. Accordingly, hypertension research has focused on identifying the mediator or mediators responsible for this phenomenon. Although several possible candidates have been extensively studied, in particular the renin-angiotensin system and catecholamines, no definite answer has been found. Hence, the search for additional mediators or the mediator causing the increase in peripheral vascular resistance in hypertension continues.