Does endothelin-1 play a role in the pathogenesis of cerebral vasospasm?

BACKGROUND Endothelin-1 is a very powerful endogenous vasoconstrictor substance produced by endothelial cells. Its long-lasting vasoconstrictor and hypertensive action has been well documented in several species, including humans. SUMMARY OF REVIEW It is generally accepted that endothelin-1 may contribute to the pathogenesis of a number of cardiovascular diseases. In the cerebral vasculature, endothelin-1 has been proposed as a key mediator of cerebral vasospasm following subarachnoid hemorrhage. Availability of endothelin-1 antagonist provided a pharmacologic tool to test the role of endothelin in the development of vasospasm. CONCLUSIONS This brief review is focused on the controversial results reported by different groups concerning the possible role of endothelin-1 in narrowing of cerebral arteries exposed to autologous blood.