to the Endothelin System David M. Pollock ascular endothelial cells form a monolayer lining in all of the blood vessels of V the circulation. Initially, they were thought to function as a crude filter allow- ing nutrients from the blood stream to diffuse through to the underlying tissues without letting proteins or blood cells escape. We now know that endothelial cells are important regulators of circulatory function, due in large measure to their rec- ognized ability to synthesize and release many factors that regulate vascular smooth muscle tone. Endothelial-derived factors, including relaxing and contracting sub- stances such as prostacyclin, nitric oxide (NO), and endothelin (ET), have been identified as important contributors in the regulation of vascular tone. Endothe- lial cells have a highly active metabolic function and are involved in clearing a number of agents from circulating blood. In addition, they have the enzyme that inactivates bradykinin and converts angiotensin I into the very potent pressor agent, angiotensin II (Ang II). Endothelial cells also generate various proteins like von Willebrand's factor, tissue plasminogen activator, growth promoting factors and lipids such as platelet activating factor. It is now clear that in addition to the regu- lation of vascular tone and hemodynamics, endothelial cells playa critical role in regulating growth and proliferative processes, inflammation and hemostasis.

A unique, integrated collection of original contributions on the molecular biology, physiology, and pathology of endothelin. Leading academic, clinical, and industrial researchers summarize the dramatic recent progress in endothelin research and indicate the optimal direction of future studies. The contributors produce a critical evaluation of endothelin chemistry and pharmacology, its mechanism of action, and its physiological functions. The book is certain to become the new standard reference source for both basic scientists and informed clinicians who want a clear idea of the roles endothelin may play in cardiovascular physiology and pathology.

In Endothelin: Molecular Biology, Physiology, and Pathology, academic, clinical, and industrial researchers summarize the dramatic recent progress that has been documented in endothelin research and indicate the optimal direction of future studies. The contributors, highly respected authorities in their fields as well as active bench scientists, produce a critical evaluation and synthesis of our knowledge of endothelin chemistry and pharmacology, its mechanism of action, and its physiological functions. Endothelin: Molecular Biology, Physiology, and Pathology is certain to become the new standard reference source for both basic scientists and informed clinicians who want a clear idea of the roles endothelin may play in cardiovascular physiology and pathology. Biochemists, as well as medicinal and clinical chemists, involved in the development of drugs designed to alter the action or expression of the endothelin molecule will find the book rich in new results and insights.