and by CD40/CD40 ligand (CD40L and CD154) interactions. 18–22 Once adherent, the
monocytes transmigrate into the tunica intima, the innermost layer of the arterial wall …

2054 vessels, Ach evokes a NO-mediated vasodilatory response; however, in patients with
endothelial dysfunction, this effect is blunted or paradoxical vasoconstriction may occur. 5 …

Background—Adipocyte-derived hormones may represent a mechanism linking insulin
resistance to cardiovascular disease. In the present study, we evaluated the direct effects of …

and modulation of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, toward conditions favoring
compromise of the fibrous cap. 27–29 On plaque rupture, activated platelets may interact …

The mobilization and incorporation of BM-derived EPCs has recently been shown to
modulate reendothelialization at sites of endothelial cell damage. 18, 19 Both studies …

ATHEROSCLEROSIS AND ITS COMPLICATIONS represent the most common cause of
death in Western societies. Over the past few years we have witnessed a paradigm shift in …

In this review we discuss the contribution of NO, prostacyclin and endotheliumderived
relaxing factor—endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor, or EDHF, to vascular function …

The metabolic syndrome is a highly prevalent multifaceted clinical entity produced through
the interaction of genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle factors. A distinctive constellation of …

Background: Endothelial dysfunction (ED), which is a risk factor for atherosclerosis, has
been reported recently in chronic hemodialysis (CHD) patients. In this study, we aim to …

Numerous mediators, believed to play a role in endothelial dysfunction (eg, neurohormones,
cytokines, hypoxia, and stretch), have been shown to activate p38 mitogen-activated protein …