The role of the microcirculation in the etiopathogenesis of vascular disease has been highlighted in a series of epidemiological studies over the last century. We currently recognize selleck kinase inhibitor the independent morbidity of microvascular disease and the prognostic role this carries for future disease. Current epidemiological studies are focusing on attempting to untangle the interrelationship between risk factors and pathological mechanisms to attempt to determine whether these represent therapeutic targets or simple markers of unmeasured risk. These studies have produced a paradigm

shift in the understanding of vascular disease, have triggered many mechanistic studies, and provide evidence to support clinical monitoring of microvascular function in the future. The importance of the microcirculation is increasingly recognized in the aetiopathogenesis of vascular disease and premature mortality. Currently, however, the only therapies used to treat microcirculatory dysfunction are exploiting so called “pleiotropic”? effects of antihypertensive agents, such ACE-inhibitors, angiotensin receptor antagonists and R788 supplier direct renin inhibitors. As we understand better the mechanisms that lead through microcirculatory dysfunction or dysregulation to cardiovascular disease, novel agents may be developed

to specifically target the microcirculation. Further, a better knowledge of the steps that lead to target organ damage may allow better risk stratification and earlier targeting of individuals at higher risk with appropriate risk modification, while providing reassurance to those at low risk. We acknowledge support of the Peninsula NIHR Clinical Research Facility. The views expressed in this publication are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the NHS, the NIHR, or the

Department of Health. David Strain, BSc (Hons), MB.ChB, MD, Clinical Senior Lecturer, Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry Tyrosine-protein kinase BLK and Hon Consultant in general internal medicine and medicine for the elderly, Royal Devon and Exeter Foundation NHS Hospital Trust. After graduating from Liverpool University, David attained his MD from Imperial College London in 2001. His thesis on the ethnic difference in the effects of insulin resistance on the microvasculature described a novel abnormality of microcirculatory autoregulatory function and its links to left ventricular hypertrophy, urinary albumin excretion and coronary atherosclerotic load. In 2007 he moved to Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry and in 2010 was awarded a prestigious HEFCE clinical senior fellowship. He is the clinical lead of a research team exploring the role of the microcirculation in the aetiopathogenic mechanisms of a diverse range of vascular disease, from stroke to diabetic cardiomyopathy.