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Updated: Jul 19, 2026
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Ultrasound Assessment of Endothelial-Dependent Flow-Mediated Vasodilation of the Brachial Artery in Clinical Research
Published on: October 22, 2014
Normal endothelium
1Dept. of Physiology, Charité Berlin, Arnimallee 22, 14195 Berlin, Germany. axel.pries@charite.de
Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology
|September 27, 2006
Summary
The endothelium, once thought passive, is a vital organ regulating cardiovascular functions. Its diverse properties and the endothelial surface layer (ESL) significantly impact blood flow, transport, and disease processes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Biology
- Endothelial Cell Biology
- Physiology
Background:
- The endothelium, lining blood vessels, actively participates in cardiovascular regulation.
- It controls perfusion, exchange, hemostasis, inflammation, and vessel formation.
- Endothelial properties vary significantly across species, organs, and vessel types.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore endothelial heterogeneity in structure and function.
- To investigate the composition and role of the luminal endothelial surface layer (ESL).
- To highlight organ-specific endothelial adaptations, such as in the lung and brain.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on endothelial structure and function.
- Analysis of morphological and permeability differences in various vascular beds.
- Examination of evidence supporting the existence and composition of the endothelial surface layer.
Main Results:
- Endothelial cells exhibit diverse morphologies (continuous, fenestrated, discontinuous) and functions.
- Specialized endothelial phenotypes exist, like the blood-brain barrier.
- Evidence suggests a substantial endothelial surface layer (ESL) beyond the glycocalyx, influencing hemodynamics.
Conclusions:
- Endothelial heterogeneity is crucial for organ-specific functions.
- The endothelial surface layer (ESL) plays a significant, yet underappreciated, role in cardiovascular physiology.
- Understanding the ESL is vital for comprehending vascular control, transport, and diseases like atherosclerosis.
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