Copyright © 2006, European Society of Cardiology
Oxygen sensors in hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction
University of Giessen Lung Center (UGLC), Medical Clinic II, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Klinikstrasse 36, 35392 Giessen, Germany
* Corresponding author. Tel.: +49 641 99 42351; fax: +49 641 99 42419. Email address: Norbert.Weissmann{at}UGLC.de Norbert.Weissmann{at}innere.med.uni-giessen.de
Hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV) is an essential mechanism adapting lung perfusion to regional ventilation. Perturbations to HPV, such as those occurring in pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome and liver failure, can result in arterial hypoxemia. Under conditions of general hypoxia, HPV increases pulmonary vascular resistance and thus causes acute pulmonary hypertension. Despite intensive research, the underlying mechanisms of HPV have not been fully elucidated. Deciphering signalling pathways that result in HPV could suggest novel approaches to address a failure of HPV, as well as for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension associated with HPV. Within this context, this review focuses on current concepts in the oxygen sensing mechanisms that underlie HPV.
KEYWORDS Hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction; Oxygen; Oxygen sensing; Lung; Hypoxia
Time for primary review 22 days
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