Molecular mechanisms of endothelial dysfunction: from nitric oxide synthesis to ADMA inhibition.

Endothelial dysfunction symbolizes several pathological conditions, including altered anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory properties of the endothelium, impaired modulation of vascular growth, and dysregulation of vascular remodeling. Nevertheless, this term has been used commonly to refer to an impairment of endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation caused by a loss of nitric oxide bioactivity. The clinical and scientific relevance of nitric oxide synthesis and bioavailability in endothelial dysfunction is based on the fact that it is a common factor in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases.