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Updated: Oct 6, 2025
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Ultrasound Assessment of Endothelial Function: A Technical Guideline of the Flow-mediated Dilation Test
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Endothelial Dysfunction: From a Pathophysiological Mechanism to a Potential Therapeutic Target
Pasquale Ambrosino1, Guido Grassi2, Mauro Maniscalco3
1Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Cardiac Rehabilitation Unit of Telese Terme Institute, 82037 Telese Terme, Benevento, Italy.
Biomedicines
|January 21, 2022
Summary
The endothelium, the largest organ, comprises endothelial cells (ECs) lining vessels. Understanding ECs is crucial for vascular health and disease research.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Biology
- Cell Biology
- Physiology
Background:
- The endothelium, a monolayer of endothelial cells (ECs), functions as the largest organ, lining all blood and lymphatic vessels.
- ECs play critical roles in maintaining vascular homeostasis, regulating blood flow, and mediating immune responses.
Discussion:
- Endothelial dysfunction is implicated in numerous pathologies, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and inflammation.
- Research into EC biology is vital for developing targeted therapies for vascular disorders.
Key Insights:
- Endothelial cells form a dynamic interface between blood and tissue.
- ECs are central to vascular development, repair, and disease processes.
Outlook:
- Future research will focus on the heterogeneity of ECs and their specific functions in different vascular beds.
- Targeting ECs offers promising therapeutic strategies for a range of diseases.
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