Methods to assess vascular endothelial function

摘要

Featured are improved methods for non-invasive assessment of vascular endothelial function. The methods of the invention use phase contrast magnetic resonance imaging angiography to determine wall shear stress before, during, and after an arterial occlusion as well as the resulting endothelial dependent flow mediated dilation. Additionally methods are disclosed which allow for comparison of measurements derived through use of phase contrast magnetic resonance imaging to relate endothelial stimulus and response. The disclosed methods of the invention allow for reproducible, non-invasive diagnosis of early stage indicators of atherosclerosis.