Effect of Aliskiren on Circulating Endothelial Progenitor Cells and Vascular Function in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes and Essential Hypertension

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of aliskiren on vascular function and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in patients with type 2 diabetes and essential hypertension. The study enrolled type 2 diabetic patients aged >50 years under stable glycemic control and first diagnosed mild essential hypertension. In phase A (n = 20), patients received aliskiren 150–300mg daily for 3 months. In phase B (n = 12), hydrochlorothiazide...