endoteliaalse

Endothelial, in Estonian endoteliaalne, describes anything related to the endothelium, the thin monolayer of cells lining the interior surface of blood vessels and the heart. The endothelium consists of a single layer of squamous cells anchored by junctional complexes, with a glycocalyx on the luminal surface that interacts with blood components. Endothelial cells vary by organ and vessel type, giving rise to continuous, fenestrated, and discontinuous endothelium according to permeability needs.

Key functions include serving as a selective barrier, regulating vascular permeability, and producing vasoactive substances such as nitric oxide, prostacyclin, and endothelin to control vessel dilation and constriction. The endothelium also helps prevent thrombosis by balancing anticoagulant and procoagulant factors, modulates immune cell trafficking via adhesion molecules, and participates in tissue repair and angiogenesis.

Endothelial dysfunction, often characterized by reduced nitric oxide availability, oxidative stress, and a pro-inflammatory state, is associated with cardiovascular risk factors and diseases including atherosclerosis, hypertension, diabetes, and sepsis. Assessment methods include measurements of flow-mediated dilation and circulating biomarkers. Therapeutic strategies aim to restore endothelial health, including lifestyle modifications, statin therapy, and antihypertensive drugs.