WE REPORT A simple explant technique to isolate and propagate endothel
ial cells from bovine cerebral arteries. The endothelial nature of the
cells was confirmed by the presence of Factor VIII/von Willebrand ant
igen, the ability to phagocytize low-density lipoprotein, and the abil
ity to be induced to express E-selectin. The lack of expression of the
CD11c antigen and the absence of smooth muscle alpha-actin immunofluo
rescence suggested that the cultures were not contaminated with macrop
hages or smooth muscle cells, respectively. This technique yields pure
cerebral arterial endothelial cell cultures, which will be of value f
or in vitro investigation of cerebrovascular physiology and disease pr
ocesses.