Determinants of tissue response to nitric oxide in health and disease [ 2000 - 2002 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof John Horowitz (Principal investigator)

Brief description The endothelium, or inner lining layer of blood vessels, exerts a controlling influence on the tendency of blood vessels to constrict or dilate, and on the likelihood that clots will form by aggregation of platelets within the blood vessel. This process is largely mediated by release of nitric oxide (NO) from the endothelium. Importanly, NO is also the active chemical formed when patients are given nitroglycerine (NTG) for the treatment of angina pectoris. There is evidence that conditions predisposing towards development of angina or of heart attacks (such as high cholesterol levels or high blood pressure) are associated with dysfunction of the endothelium, so that less NO is available. The precise cause of this process is uncertain. However, our recent experiments show that in patients with angina, circulating platelets respond poorly to NO. The research to be undertaken will explore the link between blood vessel and platelet function, examing the impact of race (Aboriginals compared to Caucasians) and coronary risk factors. It will also examine the implications of endothelial dysfunction on initial and long-term responses to NTG. The results will shed light on factors predisposing to development of heart attacks, and identify factors preventing optimal responses to anti-anginal treatment.

Funding Amount $AUD 385,432.36

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant