mPGES-1 (Microsomal Prostaglandin E Synthase-1) Mediates Vascular Dysfunction in Hypertension Through Oxidative Stress

mPGES-1 (microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1), the downstream enzyme responsible for PGE2 (prostaglandin E2) synthesis in inflammatory conditions and oxidative stress are increased in vessels from hypertensive animals. We evaluated the role of mPGES-1–derived PGE2 in the vascular dysfunction and remodeling in hypertension and the possible contribution of oxidative stress. We used human peripheral blood mononuclear cells from asymptomatic patients, arteries from untreated and Ang II (angiotensin II)–infused mPGES-1 and mPGES-1 mice, and vascular smooth muscle cells exposed to PGE2. In human cells, we found a positive correlation between mPGES-1 mRNA and carotid intima-media thickness (r=0.637; P