NADH/NADPH oxidase and vascular function

The vascular NADH/NADPH oxidase has been shown to be the major source of superoxide in the vessel wall. Recent work has provided insight into its structure and activity in vascular cells. This enzyme is involved in bath vascular smooth muscle hypertrophy and in some forms of impaired endothelium-dependent relaxation. Because oxidative stress in general participates in the pathogenesis of hypertension and atherosclerosis, the enzymes that produce reactive oxygen species may be important determinants of the course of vascular disease. (C) 1997, Elsevier Science Inc.