The endothelial cell.

Abstract

This article reviewed several important functions of the endothelium as they pertain to both normal vascular function and pathology. The endothelium has other functions that were not discussed, including regulation of vascular permeability and elaboration of several growth-promoting and growth-inhibiting factors. It is almost certain that as our knowledge of endothelial cell function increases, other roles of this important cell will be discovered. Many scientists are investigating how endothelial interaction with the remainder of the vessel and blood elements is altered by various vascular diseases. Efforts directed toward correcting or modifying endothelial cell function in these diseases will lead to new and innovative therapeutic approaches.