The endothelium helps to coordinate functions of differentiated tissues to meets the requirements of the organism as a whole. EC surface in an adult is about 1 to 6 1013 cells, - 1 kg, and - surface area of ab 1 to 7 m2. - line vessels in every organ system and - regulate the flow of nutrients, diverse biologically active molecules, and blood cells. EC receive and transmit biochemical and physical information bidirectionally. - by direct permeation or active transport of mediators through capillaries to deeper tissues or indirectly through the capacity of ECs to modulate the behavior of smooth muscle cells and other components of the vessel wall. In turn, tissue changes alter EC interactions with soluble and cellular blood components.
Author(s): Peter R. Galbraith MD, FRCP(C)
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