Molecular Mechanisms Regulating Vascular Endothelial Permeability

Vascular endothelial cells form a monolayer in the vascular lumen and act as a selective barrier to control the permeability between blood and tissues. To maintain homeostasis, the endothelial barrier function must be strictly integrated. During acute inflammation, vascular permeability temporarily increases, allowing intravascular fluid, cells, and other components to permeate tissues. Moreover, it has been suggested that the dysregulation of endothelial cell permeability may cause several diseases, including edema, cancer, and atherosclerosis. Here, we reviewed the molecular mechanisms by which endothelial cells regulate the barrier function and physiological permeability.