Evaluation of Endothelial Functions in Essential Hypertensive Subjects in Ekiti State

Abstract

Background: Endothelial dysfunction plays an important role in vascular complications and pathogenesis of essential hypertension marked by an imbalance between vasodilatory and vasoconstrictive factors, increased inflammatory activation, and pro-atherogenic modifications. This study assessed endothelial functions in essential hypertensive subjects in Ekiti State, Nigeria. Methodology: A total of 126 participants (63 hypertensives and 63 controls) were recruited. Social demographic information was obtained using a structured questionnaire. Height and weight were measured with a stadiometer and ZT-120 scale, and blood pressure was assessed using a digital sphygmomanometer. ET-1 and P-selectin were quantified using ELISA; nitric oxide and lipid profile using spectrophotometry, with lipid indices calculated. Data were statistically analyzed at p<0.05. Result: The results revealed that body mass index, family history of hypertension, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, Endothelin-1, Total cholesterol, Triglyceride, Low Density Lipoprotein and P-selectin levels were significantly higher in the essential hypertensive subjects compared to the healthy controls; however, Nitric oxide and High-Density Lipoprotein were significantly lower in the essential hypertensive subjects compared to healthy controls. There was no statistically significant difference in all parameters studied based on age and sex. The results also revealed that Endothelin-1 and P-selectin levels were significantly higher in drug-naive hypertensive subjects compared with those on treatment. Conclusion: The study highlights the role of endothelial biomarkers in the pathophysiology of essential hypertension, particularly ET-1 and P-selectin, which showed greater sensitivity and specificity statistically may serve as an early indicator of vascular dysfunction and potential targets for risk classification and disease management.