[Abnormal endothelium and its clinical markers]

The endothelial cells lining the luminal surface of vessels play important roles in maintaining the integrity of the vasculature. Endothelial cells construct a thromboresistent surface, and regulate vascular tone, adhesion of leukocytes, and cell growth. The dysfunction or injury of endothelial cells is the cause, not only of vascular diseases, but also of certain visceral disorders including ARDS and MOF. Thus, it is important to evaluate the function or injury of endothelial cells in such patients. In this article, I will describe the methods to evaluate the function of endothelial cells and the markers for injury of endothelial cells.