Vascular dysfunction

Vascular dysfunction refers to the impaired function of blood vessels, affecting their ability to regulate blood flow, maintain vascular tone, and respond to physiological demands. This dysfunction is clinically significant as it can lead to conditions such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, and peripheral artery disease, increasing the risk of cardiovascular events. A key example is endothelial dysfunction, which is associated with increased inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to atherogenesis.