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The clinical implications of endothelial dysfunction

^* Evans Department of Medicine and Whitaker Cardiovascular Institute, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA

View larger version (25K): [in a new window]   Figure 1 The role of endothelial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease events. Cardiovascular disease risk factors adversely affect a diverse range of endothelial homeostatic functions and contribute mechanistically to the development, progression, and clinical expression of atherosclerosis. The response of the endothelium to the cumulative effects of risk factors may, in part, relate to intrinsic and environmental factors such as genetic polymorphisms, dietary factors, exercise, and other factors. Thus, endothelial function may serve as a barometer for cardiovascular risk.