Increased circulating CD31+/annexin V+ apoptotic microparticles and decreased circulating endothelial progenitor cell levels in hypertensive patients with microalbuminuria

Abstract

These findings suggest that hypertensive patients with microalbuminuria or macroalbuminuria have increased endothelial apoptotic microparticles and decreased circulating EPC levels, which may contribute to atherosclerotic disease progression and enhanced cardiovascular risk in hypertensive patients with nephropathy.