Intermittent hypoxia was induced in human aortic endothelial cells (HAEC). T-75 flasks with HAEC were placed in a 37°C water bath and gassed with 1) 16% O2, 5% CO2, balance N2 [control (C)]; 2) 5 min of 16% O2, 5% CO2, balance N2 alternating with 5 min of 0% O2, 5% CO2, balanced N2 [intermittent hypoxia (IH)]; 3) 4% O2, 5% CO2, balance N2 [sustained hypoxia (SH-4%)]; or 4) 8% O2, 5% CO2, balance N2 [sustained hypoxia (SH-8%)] for 8 h.