Endothelial progenitor cells: biology and therapeutic potential in hypertension

Purpose of review In this review, we summarize some of the recent advances in our understanding of the biology of endothelial progenitor cells, and discuss the potential relevance of these progenitor cells for endothelial function and associated microvascular abnormalities that can form the structural basis of essential hypertension. Recent findings Both in experimental models of hypertension and in patients with hypertension, the function of endothelial progenitor cells is impaired. Also, some anti hypertensive drugs that have been associated with reversal of endothelial function and microvascular rarefaction appear to correct endothelial progenitor cell dysfunction. Summary While information on endothelial progenitor biology is still limited in patients with hypertension in comparison with, for example, patients with coronary artery disease, it is a topic that warrants the attention of researchers in the hypertension field, as it may have important implications for the development of organ damage, and potentially could be linked to the pathogenesis of hypertension itself.