Increased Endothelial Exocytosis and Generation of Endothelin-1 Contributes to Constriction of Aged Arteries

Abstract

The stimulated exocytotic release of ET-1 is dramatically increased in aged endothelium. This reflects increased reactivity of exocytosis, increased expression and storage of ET-1 precursor peptides, and increased expression of ECE-1. Altered endothelial exocytosis of ET-1 and other mediators may contribute to cardiovascular pathology in aging.