Vascular Endothelial Dysfunction and Exercise in Metabolic Syndrome Patients

ABSTRACT

Metabolic syndrome, a constellation of cardiovascular disease risk factors, is a global pandemic. Over 30% of the adult population in both South Korea and the United States are currently classified as having metabolic syndrome. Vascular endothelial function is a precursor of future atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Conduit artery flow-mediated dilation using ultrasonography is considered the non-invasive, gold standard for assessing nitric oxide-mediated vascular endothelial function. Patients with metabolic syndrome commonly exhibit increased insulin resistance and hyperglycemia, which are thought to impair vascular endothelial function by increasing oxidative stress and reducing nitric oxide bioavailability in the vascular endothelium and in smooth muscle cells. Previous findings have indicated that long-term aerobic exercise has a positive effect on impaired vascular endothelial function in metabolic syndrome patients, but the underlying mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Therefore, further studies are needed that will apply different exercise modalities and intensities with the goal of improving vascular endothelial function in patients with metabolic syndrome, as well as investigation of the associated mechanisms. Ultimately, well-designed future studies will help to establish and develop exercise prescription and/or exercise therapy programs that can reduce cardiovascular disease risk and improve cardiovascular health in metabolic syndrome patients.