[Endothelial adhesive molecules and vascular permeability]

Endothelial cells (EC) are the main permeable barrier of vascular wall, and play important roles in the regulation of vascular permeability. Cell adhesive molecules (CAM) participate in cell-to-cell junction organization and cell-to-matrix adhesion. CAM are closely related to endothelial integrity and permeability. Three CAM families take part in the intermediate junction of EC formation: integrin family, cadherin family and immunoglobulin family. Studies on CAM are helpful to elucidate the mechanism of EC injury and repair, new vessel formation, regulation of vascular permeability and circulation blood cell emigration.