Endothelium at a Glance

Abstract

Exposed to the blood milieu and variable hemodynamic forces, endothelial cells of different vessels exhibit significant heterogeneity, directing also the variety of endothelial functions. Endothelial cells are actively involved in many physiological processes, including vascular tone regulation, fluid filtration and reabsorption processes, maintenance of blood fluidity and proper hemostasis, leucocyte trafficking, tissue repair, and angiogenesis; accordingly, healthy endothelium is crucial for vascular homeostasis. On the other hand, many exoand endogenous harmful factors can cause endothelial dysfunction, associated with inflammation, thrombosis, pathological vascular wall remodeling, and predisposing to the development of cardiovascular and other diseases. In order to design accurate clinical and pharmacological strategies to postpone or ameliorate endothelial dysfunction, endothelial dysfunction should firstly be recognized. Therefore, understanding endothelial physiology is crucial for clinical measures to be timely taken. The review briefly outlines some basic concepts of endothelial structure and function, focusing on endothelial barrier function and endothelium-dependent vasodilation, and addressing some potential therapeutic targets. Additional specific concepts of endothelial (dys)function, with particular emphasis on its involvement in inflammation, hemostasis, and its (mal)adaptation to environmental challenges are extensively described in the following book chapters.