[The role of the -344C/T polymorphism of the aldosterone synthase gene (CYP11B2) in cardiovascular diseases].

Aldosterone plays an important role in the regulation of electrolyte and water homeostasis and in blood pressure maintenance. The latest studies have revealed involvement of this hormone in the development of myocardium hypertrophy and fibrosis, with heart failure progression, vessel remodeling, and atherogenesis. The crucial enzyme in aldosterone production is aldosterone synthase, which catalyses the last three steps of its synthesis.

[The role of protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP-1B) in insulin resistance].

Insulin resistance plays an important role in the development of such abnormalities as impaired glucose tolerance, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and hyperlipidemia. The rates of these diseases are increasing and their cardiovascular complications are among the most common causes of death worldwide. The discovery of protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP-1B) seems to be a milestone in the investigation of insulin signaling transmission.