Effect of valsartan and 17β-estradiol on proliferation of human vascular smooth muscle cells

We have studied the effects of the AT1-receptor antagonist valsartan and of the natural estrogen 17 beta-estradiol on the proliferation of human coronary artery smooth muscle cells. The substances were tested in the concentration range of 10(-8) to 10(-5) M, each alone and in equimolar combinations. Whereas 17 beta-estradiol significantly inhibited proliferation at 10(-6) and 10(-5) M, valsartan did not have a significant effect at any of the concentrations tested. In equimolar estradiol/valsartan combinations, valsartan did not antagonize the antiproliferative effect of 17 beta-estradiol. Thus combined treatment of hypertensive post-menopausal patients with valsartan and estradiol is likely to have no impact on the estradiol-induced inhibition of smooth muscle cell proliferation. Med Sci Res 27:169-170 (C) 1999 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.