Function
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
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