VE-cadherin status as an indicator of microvascular permeability

VE-cadherin phosphorylation and binding partner status are important indicators of endothelial permeability. Here we describe several techniques aimed at discerning total tyrosine phosphorylation levels of VE-cadherin, VE-cadherin phosphorylation on specific tyrosine residues, and the ability of VE-cadherin to bind its binding partner beta-catenin. Taken together, these approaches to studying VE-cadherin status on microvascular endothelial cells are excellent complements to traditional permeability assays.