The establishment of precise and reliable biomarker tests for the early stages of cardiovascular disease is of great importance and can be the cornerstone in the prevention of future cardiovascular disease (CVD). Furthermore, some biomarkers may provide important information concerning the pathogenesis of CVD or appear to be useful in risk stratification, in CVD diagnosis, or in monitoring therapy; many others may be risk factors themselves, representing therefore potential targets of therapy. The ideal biomarker should have the following characteristics: highly sensitive, specific, reliable, accessible, standardized, dependable, cost effective, and easily interpretable by clinicians. The present book focuses on the presentation and evaluation of the most promising classical and novel biochemical markers used in CVD (coronary artery disease, hypertension, heart failure, hyperlipidemia, peripheral arterial disease). The underlying pathophysiological characteristics of each biomarker, as well as potential clinical implications in daily practice are reviewed in this book.

The establishment of precise and reliable biomarker tests for the early stages of cardiovascular disease is of great importance and can be the cornerstone in the prevention of future cardiovascular disease (CVD). Furthermore, some biomarkers may provide important information concerning the pathogenesis of CVD or appear to be useful in risk stratification, in CVD diagnosis, or in monitoring therapy; many others may be risk factors themselves, representing therefore potential targets of therapy. The ideal biomarker should have the following characteristics: highly sensitive, specific, reliable, accessible, standardized, dependable, cost effective, and easily interpretable by clinicians. The present book focuses on the presentation and evaluation of the most promising classical and novel biochemical markers used in CVD (coronary artery disease, hypertension, heart failure, hyperlipidemia, peripheral arterial disease). The underlying pathophysiological characteristics of each biomarker, as well as potential clinical implications in daily practice are reviewed in this book.

It is well established that the vascular endothelium consists of a single layer of endothelial cells (ECs) that lines the entire vascular system, which plays an important role in vascular homeostasis, immune and inflammatory reactions. The endothelial cells exert significant autocrine, paracrine and endocrine actions and influence smooth muscle cells, platelets and peripheral leucocytes. It represents an important barrier between the blood and the underlying interstitium and cells and has a major role in the regulation of vascular tone, producing several vasoactive mediators. This book examines up-to-date research regarding the role of endothelial functions in terms of atherosclerosis and its clinical manifestations.

This guide thoroughly discusses all aspects of the aorta, including embryology, anatomy, health, and disease. This highly focused text concentrates on the functions of the aorta, not simply as a pathophysiological entity, but also as a significant prognostic indicator for cardiovascular events.

An essential tool for practicing cardiologists and trainees, this guide:

• covers all aortic diseases, including aortic aneurysms, aortic dissections, intramular hematoma, congenital heart diseases, heritable connective tissue disorders, and aortic trauma
• discusses the aging aorta, aorta and pregnancy, and chest pain of aortic origin
• examines data related to molecular/genetic mechanisms in aortic function and diseases
• presents established and cutting-edge techniques for the evaluationof aortic function and structure