Trans-myocardial Extraction of Endothelin-1 Correlates with Increased Microcirculatory Resistance following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Figure 3

Suggested scheme for upregulation of ET-1 post-PCI. Mechanical disruption of atherosclerotic plaque and endothelial cells by balloon angioplasty leads to release of ET-1 and Big ET-1. Additionally, increased circulating inflammatory mediators post-PCI may upregulate the regulated Weibel–Palade Body secretory pathway. ET-1 binds to ETA receptors on vascular smooth muscle cells causing vasoconstriction. Figure incorporates material derived from angioplasty: balloon inflated with stent by Blausen Medical used under license: CC BY-SA 4.0 and Servier Medical Art (smart.servier.com) used under License CC BY 3.0.