[Endothelium function in ischemia-reperfusion (a literature review)]

Endothelium was shown to be one of the most hypoxia-tolerant mammalian cell types and to be injured in ischemia to a lesser extent than other cells. Alteration in the endothelial function during hypoxia and ischemia protects the organs against ischemic injury. Postischemic reperfusion contributes to endothelial dysfunction and initiates the reperfusion injury. Some data show ischemia/reperfusion to cause a systemic alteration of endothelial function in remote organs.