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High endothelial venules (HEVs): specialized endothelium for lymphocyte migration
1Laboratoire de Biologie Moléculaire Eucaryote (LBME) du CNRS, Toulouse, France.
Immunology Today
|September 1, 1995
Summary
High endothelial venules (HEVs) are specialized blood vessels crucial for immune cell movement. Their unique properties and role in chronic inflammatory diseases are highlighted.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Vascular Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- High endothelial venules (HEVs) are specialized postcapillary venules.
- HEVs are primarily located in lymphoid tissues.
- They facilitate high levels of lymphocyte extravasation from the blood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the unique properties of HEV endothelium.
- To discuss molecular mechanisms controlling HEV specialization.
- To review evidence on the role of HEVs in chronic inflammatory diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research.
- Highlighting unique endothelial properties.
- Discussing molecular mechanisms and pathogenetic evidence.
Main Results:
- HEVs possess unique endothelial characteristics supporting lymphocyte trafficking.
- Specific molecular mechanisms regulate HEV development and function.
- Evidence suggests HEVs are implicated in chronic inflammatory disease pathogenesis.
Conclusions:
- HEVs are critical for immune surveillance and response.
- Understanding HEV biology offers insights into inflammatory diseases.
- Targeting HEVs may present therapeutic strategies for chronic inflammation.