Clinial application of endothelin receptor antagonists in treatment of pulmonary hypertension

Endothelin-1(ET-1) is a powerful intrinic vasoconstrictor,which plays an important role in the development of pulmonary hypertension.There are two types of ET-1 receptors,ETA and ETB.This article gives a review of the recent advancement in clinical application of non-selective and selective ET receptor antagonists in the treatment of pulmonary hypertension.Endothelin receptor antagonists have been shown to improve symptoms,exercise capacity,and hemodynamics of patients with pulmonary hypertension.The main side effect of ET receptor antagonists is the elevation of hepatic transaminase.