Cytochrome P4502C is an EDHF synthase in coronary arteries

Studies designed to elucidate the identity of the potent vasodilator autaco id endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) in the coronary vascul ar bed have highlighted a role for vascular cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes i n cardiovascular homeostasis. Not only is there strong evidence suggesting that the putative coronary EDHF synthase is an endothelially expressed CYP epoxygenase, but CYP products such as epoxyeicosatrienoic acids and reactiv e oxygen species have been implicated in the regulation of intracellular si gnalling cascades and vascular cell proliferation. (Trends Cardiovasc Med 2 000;10:166-170). (C) 2001, Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.