Differential action of ACE inhibitors on the eNOS pathway

Background: Clinical trials show that not all ACE inhibitors (ACEIs) improve outcomes in patients with CAD and preserved ventricular function. This could be related to different effects on endothelial function, i.e., endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression and activity. Aim: To compare the effects of various ACEIs on the eNOS pathway. Methods: Rats were orally treated with ACEIs at a dose able to cause a 25% reduction in blood pressure: perindopril 3, trandolapril 1, quinapril 10, ramipril 1 and enalapril 20 mg/kg/day. The eNOS pathway was evaluated in intact aorta and cardiomyocytes (CM). Results: All ACEIs increased eNOS protein expression and activity in the aorta (both p<0.0001 vs. vehicle, for data in table ^p<0.05,*p<0.01,°p<0.001 vs. perindopril) and in CM (both p<0.05 vs. vehicle).