Importantly, the production of ET-1 and expression of ET-A and B receptors can be modulated by hormones such as estradiol and ANG II. Estradiol attenuates ET-1 production, and reduces ET-1 mediated vasoconstriction via an ET-B receptor mechanism in vitro. Thus, decline in estradiol after menopause may enhance vasoconstrictor tone via ET-1 and lead to HTN. ET-1 also potentiates the vasoconstrictor effects of ANG II since the vasoconstrictor and hypertensive effects of ANG II are ameliorated by ET-1 receptor blockade. Additionally, ANG II stimulates the synthesis of ET-1 and upregulates ET-A and ET-B receptor expression on VSM. The ANG II receptor antagonist Losartan reduces ET-A and ET-B receptor expression and attenuates the constrictor effects of ET-1 in a diabetic rat model. Therefore, ET-1 is an important independent factor contributing to HTN in PMW, but therapeutic agents targeting both ANG II and ET-1 may have greater efficacy given their interactions.