Endothelialmem

Endothelialmem is a term used to refer to the plasma membrane of endothelial cells, which line the interior surface of blood vessels. This membrane forms a dynamic barrier between circulating blood and underlying tissues and participates in selective solute flux, signal transduction, and intercellular communication. The endothelial membrane consists of a phospholipid bilayer rich in cholesterol and an outer leaflet enriched with glycolipids. It contains an array of membrane proteins such as receptors (VEGFR, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, thrombomodulin), transporters (GLUT1, aquaporin-1), ion channels, and components of cell junctions such as VE-cadherin. The surface is coated by the glycocalyx, a carbohydrate-rich layer that modulates permeability and interaction with blood components.

Functions include regulation of vascular permeability, mechanotransduction in response to shear stress, leukocyte recruitment during inflammation, and inhibition or promotion of coagulation. Endothelial metabolism and transcytosis enable selective transport of molecules; adherens junctions and tight junctions maintain barrier integrity. The membrane also participates in signaling pathways that control endothelial proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis.

Clinical relevance: Endothelialmem dysfunction contributes to edema, atherosclerosis, hypertension, sepsis, and diabetic microvascular complications. Changes in membrane protein expression or glycocalyx integrity influence leukocyte adhesion, permeability, and thrombosis.

Research and therapeutics: studies examine lipid composition, protein interactions, and glycocalyx integrity; endothelial-targeted therapies (e.g., anti-angiogenic drugs targeting membrane receptors) and drug delivery across the endothelium; in vitro and in vivo models analyze membrane dynamics under flow.