Preface

The cardiovascular system is undoubtedly a key physiological regulator of the human body. Disruption of the delicate balance of its *milieu interieur* and dysfunction of its sophisticated functional cogs and wheels result in catastrophic events, which in most cases are irreversible. For these reasons, a deeper understanding of the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease conditions is not only a must but is also a natural consequence of decades of evidence-based empirical scientific research.

The identification of microcirculation and more precisely of endothelial cells is a major milestone in cardiovascular physiology. Indeed, it is the editor's belief that all cardiovascular conditions can be traced back to some degree of microvascular endothelial dysfunction. However, notwithstanding the tremendous leaps and advancements undertaken by the scientific community, there is still a dire need for more effective therapeutic regimens. It is with this idea in mind that the current book has been shaped.

The scope of the current work is twofold. First, we provide a broad overview of the molecular mechanisms associated with relevant and significant cardiovascular conditions that continue to plague humanity. We discuss conditions such as pulmonary hypertension, familial hypercholesterolemia, aortic aneurysm, and dissection in depth. We also focus our attention on the pathogenesis of metabolic cardiomyopathy. While seemingly unrelated in etiology, these conditions have a recurring leitmotif: endothelial dysfunction. Second, we discuss potential and promising therapeutic avenues targeted at addressing these conditions. The overarching goal of this multifaceted and international work is to entice future and current members of the scientific community to direct their endeavors towards improving our current knowledge of cardiovascular disease conditions and curb their impact on our everyday lives.

> **Alaeddin Abukabda** Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Department of Physiology, Erie, USA

**Maria Suciu and Minodora Andor** Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Romania

## Section 1
