Effect of aliskiren on circulating endothelial progenitor cells and vascular function in patients with type 2 diabetes and essential hypertension.

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of aliskiren on vascular function and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in patients with type 2 diabetes and essential hypertension.

Methods: The study enrolled type 2 diabetic patients aged >50 years under stable glycemic control and first diagnosed mild essential hypertension. In phase A (n = 20), patients received aliskiren 150-300 mg daily for 3 months.