Endótælfrumna

Endótælfrumna are specialized cells found in the inner lining of blood vessels and lymphatic vessels, collectively known as the endothelium. These cells form a single layer that separates the circulating blood or lymph from the vessel wall. Their primary function is to regulate the passage of substances into and out of the bloodstream, acting as a selective barrier.

Beyond their barrier function, endótælfrumna play a crucial role in vascular homeostasis. They are involved in various processes including the control of blood clotting (thrombosis), the regulation of blood pressure through the production of signaling molecules like nitric oxide, and the modulation of inflammation by interacting with immune cells. They also contribute to the growth of new blood vessels, a process called angiogenesis.

The endothelium is a dynamic tissue, and endótælfrumna can change their properties in response to physiological cues. This plasticity allows them to adapt to different conditions, such as injury or infection. Damage to the endótælfrumna can have significant health implications, contributing to conditions like atherosclerosis, where the vessel walls become thickened and hardened. Research into endótælfrumna is ongoing to better understand their complex roles in health and disease.