The most potent vasoconstrictor made by the body, central to vascular-tone research.
Also known as: ET-1 · EDN1
Part of the Foundational & therapeutic peptides cluster
Overview
Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a 21-amino-acid peptide produced mainly by vascular endothelial cells and is the most potent endogenous vasoconstrictor known. Acting through ETA and ETB receptors, it regulates blood pressure, vascular tone and sodium handling. This page is educational and not medical advice.
Source & context
Biological / chemical source: Produced by vascular endothelium; encoded by the EDN1 gene
Primary research or clinical context: Vascular tone and pulmonary hypertension research
Structure and receptors
ET-1 is one of three endothelin isoforms and contains two internal disulfide bridges. It is processed from big-endothelin by endothelin-converting enzyme and signals through the ETA and ETB G-protein-coupled receptors on vascular smooth muscle and endothelium.
Clinical research context
Because sustained ET-1 signaling raises vascular resistance, endothelin receptor antagonists such as bosentan and ambrisentan are approved for pulmonary arterial hypertension. The peptide is a core model in cardiovascular, renal and fibrosis research.
Sequence
One-letter sequence commonly cited for Endothelin-1 (educational; isoforms and modifications may differ):
CSCSSLMDKECVYFCHLDIIW
Residues plotted ~100° apart around an α-helix — clustering of one color reveals an amphipathic face.
FAQ about Endothelin-1
What is Endothelin-1?+
Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a 21-amino-acid peptide produced mainly by vascular endothelial cells and is the most potent endogenous vasoconstrictor known. Acting through ETA and ETB receptors, it regulates blood pressure, vascular tone and sodium handling. This page is educational and not medical advice.
Is Endothelin-1 an approved medicine?+
Endothelin-1 is discussed here as a research / educational topic. Vascular tone and pulmonary hypertension research. This is not medical advice.
What is the typical length of Endothelin-1?+
Endothelin-1 is commonly described as approximately 21 amino acids (Signaling peptide (endothelin)).