Direct effects of lead (Pb2+) on the relaxation of in vitro cultured rat aorta to acetylcholine.

Lead (Pb(2+)) exposure is related to increased blood pressure or hypertension of human or animals. Abnormal vascular relaxant responses of low level Pb(2+) exposed animals were reported by several studies. However, it is difficult to tell whether these effects were induced directly by Pb(2+) or not.