Enhanced endothelial progenitor cell angiogenic potency, present in early experimental renovascular hypertension, deteriorates with disease duration.

Background Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) augment neovascularization and repair of damaged tissues, but may undergo functional changes during exposure to cardiovascular risk factors. This study tested the hypothesis that early renovascular hypertension (RVH) modulates the temporal pattern of EPC function that deteriorates with disease duration.