This site is intended for healthcare professionals

Sign in
Go to /sign-in page

You can view 5 more pages before signing in

Function

Authoring team

The endothelial cell has many functions, dependent on site:

  • production of vasoactive substances:
    • prostacyclin, PGI2
    • endothelium-derived relaxing factor
    • endothelin
    • production of angiotensin converting enzyme on its surface
  • passive filtration of substances
  • production of carbonic anhydrase surface enzyme in lung
  • secretion of structural elements: glycocalyx and basal lamina
  • production of clotting agents:
    • thromboxane
    • von Willebrand's factor
  • defence mechanisms:
    • interaction with leukocytes to permit them passage to areas of inflammation
    • contraction of intracellular filaments leading to gap formation

Related pages

Create an account to add page annotations

Create a free account

Add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation, such as a web address or phone number. This information will always be displayed when you visit this page

The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

Connect

Copyright 2024 Oxbridge Solutions Limited, a subsidiary of OmniaMed Communications Limited. All rights reserved. Any distribution or duplication of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Oxbridge Solutions receives funding from advertising but maintains editorial independence.