Step 1: Recall endothelin biology. Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a potent endogenous vasoconstrictor secreted by endothelial cells, acting on \(ET_A\) and \(ET_B\) receptors.
Step 2: Trace the messenger. Stimulation of endothelial \(ET_B\) receptors releases nitric oxide, which raises cyclic GMP (cGMP) in vascular smooth muscle and modulates the vascular response.
Step 3: Match the option text. The intended answer in the key is cGMP, which corresponds to option B.
Step 4: Exclude distractors. cAMP, sodium receptors, and calcium receptors are not the signaling route highlighted for endothelin in this item.