Endothelin Receptor Antagonists

General Pharmacology

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a 21 amino acid peptide that is produced by the vascular endothelium (click here for details). It is a very potent vasoconstrictor that binds to smooth muscle endothelin receptors, of which there are two subtypes: ET_A and ET_B receptors. These receptors are coupled to a Gq-protein and receptor activation leads to the formation of IP₃, which causes the release of calcium by the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) and increased smooth muscle contraction and vasoconstriction. There are also ET_B receptors on the endothelium that stimulate the formation of nitric oxide, which produces vasodilation in the absence of smooth muscle ET_A and ET_B receptor activation. This receptor distribution helps to explain the phenomenon that ET-1 administration causes transient vasodilation (initial endothelial ET_B activation) and hypotension, followed by prolong vasoconstriction (smooth muscle ET_A and ET_B activation) and hypertension.

ET-1 receptors in the heart are also linked to the Gq-protein and IP₃ signal transduction pathway (click here for details). Therefore, ET-1 in the heart causes the SR to release calcium, which increases contractility. ET-1 also increases the heart rate.

Therapeutic Indications

Because of its powerful vasoconstrictor properties, and its effects on intracellular calcium, ET-1 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of hypertension, coronary vasospasm, and heart failure. Many studies suggest a role for ET-1 in idiopathic pulmonary hypertension, as well as in systemic hypertension. ET-1 is released by the failing myocardium, where it may contribute to cardiac calcium overload and hypertrophy.

Endothelin receptor antagonists, by blocking the vasoconstrictor and cardiotonic effects of ET-1, produce vasodilation and cardiac inhibition. Endothelin receptor antagonists have been shown to decrease mortality and improve hemodynamics in experimental models of heart failure.

At present, the one approved indication for endothelin antagonists is pulmonary hypertension. 

Specific Drugs

Bosentan, a non-selective ET-1 receptor antagonist (blocks ET_A and ET_B receptors) is currently used in the treatment of pulmonary hypertension. Macitentan is a similar non-selective antagonist, but with a longer half-life than bosentan. Another drug also used for pulmonary hypertension is ambrisentan, which is a selective ET_A receptor antagonist. 

Side Effects and Contraindications

Some endothelin antagonist side effects are common to most vasodilators; namely, headache, cutaneous flushing, and peripheral edema. This class of drug may cause birth defects and therefore is contraindicated in pregnancy. These drugs can also cause liver injury.

Revised 11/30/2023