A non-invasive assessment for endothelial function of small animals

At present, many studies indicate that atherosclerosis has high correlation with risk factors of cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, atherosclerosis usually accompanies with endothelial dysfunction. However, endothelial dysfunction dose not necessarily have situation of atherosclerosis. It means that endothelial dysfunction can be the early change of atherosclerosis. If we can use non-invasive methods to monitor the function of vascular endothelia, it will be very helpful for early assessment of atherosclerosis. It can also detect atherosclerosis earlier then decrease the mortality and mobility of atherosclerosis related diseases, such as coronary artery disease, stroke and chronic renal disease, with appropriate management.