Bioactivation of organic nitrates and the mechanism of nitrate tolerance

Emila Klemenska; Andrzej Beręsewicz

Vol 16, No 1 (2009)

Review Article

Submitted: 2013-01-14

Published online: 2008-11-28

View PDF

Download PDF file

Get Citation

Bioactivation of organic nitrates and the mechanism of nitrate tolerance

Emila Klemenska, Andrzej Beręsewicz

Cardiol J 2009;16(1):11-19.

Vol 16, No 1 (2009)

Review articles

Submitted: 2013-01-14

Published online: 2008-11-28

Abstract

Organic nitrates, such as nitroglycerin, are commonly used in the therapy of cardiovascular disease. Long-term therapy with these drugs, however, results in the rapid development of nitrate tolerance, limiting their hemodynamic and anti-ischemic efficacy. In addition, nitrate tolerance is associated with the expression of potentially deleterious modifications such as increased oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and sympathetic activation. In this review we discuss current concepts regarding the mechanisms of organic nitrate bioactivation, nitrate tolerance, and nitrate-mediated oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction. We also examine how hydralazine may prevent nitrate tolerance and related endothelial dysfunction.