Endothelial cell functions. Relationship to atherogenesis

The vascular endothelium plays a critical role in the preservation of norma l vessel wall structure and function. In particular, endothelial cells cont rol vascular permeability, vessel tone, coagulation, fibrinolysis, and infl ammatory responses. These functions are accomplished by production of a var iety of biologically active substances. However, endothelial cell-mediated reactions may also lead to the development of pathological stages within th e vessel wall. The current review is focused on endothelial cell metabolism in relationship to the development of atherosclerosis.