This study was to investigate cell cycle distribution of the vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and negative regulator of cell proliferation p27 expression caused by platelet derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB), angiotensin II (Ang II) and arginine vasopressin (AVP). Deprived of fotal calf serum for 48 h, cultured VSMCs in quiescent condition were collected at different times after stimulation of Ang II, AVP and PDGF-BB. Cell cycle distribution and p27 expression were determined with a flow cytometer. The results showed that the protein content of VSMCs was significantly increased (43.6%) by Ang II as a result of hypertrophy, but Ang II did not lead to downregulation of p27. AVP could downregulate p27 slightly. PDGF could inhibit p27 expression significantly and cause VSMCs hyperplasia. These results suggest that the progression of VSMCs through G1 to S phase might be brought out by the inhibition of p27 during proliferation.