Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a polypeptide composed of 21 amino acid residues and is a pleiotropic component. It was originally a pre peptide of 212 amino acids. Vascular endothelial cells are a rich source of ET-1. The expression of ET-1 in endothelial cells is influenced by various factors, including mechanical stimulation, multiple hormones, and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Endothelin is first identified as an endothelin derived relaxing factor, and then as an endothelin derived contractile factor. ET-1 stimulates myocardial contraction and cell growth, regulates the release of vasoactive substances, and stimulates smooth muscle cell mitosis. It also serves as a growth promoting factor for endothelial cells and is regulated by hypothalamic and pituitary cells for secretion. ET-1 may control the inflammatory response by promoting the adhesion and migration of neutrophils and stimulating the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.