Endothelial function

Strong predictor of cardiovascular events

An early and potent marker of atherosclerosis, endothelial function of the arterial vasculature is certainly one of the most important parameters in cardio-vascular testing [1, 2]. While the aortic Pulse Wave Velocity (aPWV) is linked to the elasticity and distensibility of the large arterial vessels and the occurrence of Arterial Stiffness, endothelial function marks the ability of the endothelial layer to release NO modulating the tone of the smooth muscle fibers embedded in the vessel wall of the conduit arteries [3]. In diseases associated with an increased cardiovascular risk, such as diabetes or obesity, endothelial function is compromised in early disease stages already [4]. Testing of endothelial function is a valuable tool both in the clinical setting for risk stratification and therapy follow-up as well as in research, in particular in epidemiological and drug studies.