Non-pharmacological interventions for vascular health and the role of the endothelium

Abstract

The most common non-pharmacological intervention for both peripheral and cerebral vascular health is regular physical activity (e.g., exercise training), which improves function across a range of exercise intensities and modalities. Numerous non-exercising approaches have also been suggested to improved vascular function, including repeated ischemic preconditioning (IPC); heat therapy such as hot water bathing and sauna; and pneumatic compression. Chronic adaptive responses have been observed across a number of these approaches, yet the precise mechanisms that underlie these effects in humans are not fully understood. Acute increases in blood flow and circulating signalling factors that induce responses in endothelial function are likely to be key moderators driving these adaptations. While the impact on circulating factors and environmental mechanisms for adaptation may vary between approaches, in essence, they all centre around acutely elevating blood flow throughout the circulation and stimulating improved endothelium-dependent vascular function and ultimately vascular health. Here, we review our current understanding of the mechanisms driving endothelial adaptation to repeated exposure to elevated blood flow, and the interplay between this response and changes in circulating factors. In addition, we will consider the limitations in our current knowledge base and how these may be best addressed through the selection of more physiologically relevant experimental models and research. Ultimately, improving our understanding of the unique impact that non-pharmacological interventions have on the vasculature will allow us to develop superior strategies to tackle declining vascular function across the lifespan, prevent avoidable vascular-related disease, and alleviate dependency on drug-based interventions.

Optimization of Tuina rolling manipulation parameters to promote blood circulation using a circulatory orthogonal experiment

“…When human skin is stimulated by rolling manipulation, the effective vasodilator SP in the skin is released from the nerve endings and activates nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in neighboring endothelial cells through the action of IκB kinase. NOS in turn synthesizes nitric oxide (NO), which leads to the expansion of dermal microvascular endothelial cells (DMECs), increases blood flow velocity and improves blood circulation 34 , 35 ) .…”

Magnesium ions improve vasomotor function in exhausted rats

“…Generating sufficient NO levels to regulate the resistance of the blood vessels and thus maintain adequate blood flow is essential to the healthy performance of the vasculature. It has been reported that exercise training can enhance endothelium-dependent vasodilation in animal and human studies [44][45][46][47]. In general, regular exercise not only increases the production and release of the NO induced by shear stress, but also reduces NO inactivation by upregulating the antioxidant defense mechanism, ultimately leading to an increase in NO bioavailability [48].…”

Obesity and Venous Disorders-An Overview

“…Non-pharmacological interventions can significantly alter the blood flow, consequently inducing positive variations in the endothelium. 19 Weight loss decreases venous pressure, and regular exercise increases the tone of the calf muscles to support the vein wall. Exercise also ensures energy expenditure and promotes weight loss.…”