{"id":43672,"date":"2024-03-14T19:27:34","date_gmt":"2024-03-14T13:42:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/?p=43672"},"modified":"2024-03-14T19:27:35","modified_gmt":"2024-03-14T13:42:35","slug":"endothelial-cells","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/endothelial-cells\/","title":{"rendered":"Endothelial Cells: Definition, Types, Structure, Functions"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong>Endothelial cells are specialized cells that cover the inside walls of <a href=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/blood-components-formation-functions\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"41926\">blood<\/a> vessels and lymphatic vessels. They form a thin and delicate layer of endothelium, which acts as a barrier separating the bloodstream from the surrounding tissues.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Endothelial cells play an important role in maintaining vascular <a href=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/homeostasis\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"41128\">homeostasis<\/a> and regulating blood flow. These cells regulate the movement of fluids into and out of tissues. This function is essential for maintaining overall bodily function. These cells are also involved in various other physiological processes, including vasodilation and vasoconstriction, <a href=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/immune-response\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"38519\">immune responses<\/a>, inflammation, and the prevention of blood clot formation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1205\" height=\"631\" src=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Endothelial-Cells.jpeg\" alt=\"Endothelial Cells\" class=\"wp-image-43674\" srcset=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Endothelial-Cells.jpeg 1205w, https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Endothelial-Cells-300x157.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Endothelial-Cells-1024x536.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Endothelial-Cells-768x402.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1205px) 100vw, 1205px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Endothelial Cells<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Studying the characteristics and functions of endothelial cells is important for understanding different diseases caused by dysfunction in the endothelium and developing targeted therapeutic strategies to maintain vascular health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_65 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #0a0a0a;color:#0a0a0a\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #0a0a0a;color:#0a0a0a\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/endothelial-cells\/#types-of-endothelial-cells\" title=\"Types of Endothelial Cells\">Types of Endothelial Cells<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/endothelial-cells\/#1-vascular-endothelial-cells\" title=\"1. Vascular Endothelial Cells\">1. Vascular Endothelial Cells<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/endothelial-cells\/#2-lymphatic-endothelial-cells\" title=\"2. Lymphatic Endothelial Cells\">2. Lymphatic Endothelial Cells<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/endothelial-cells\/#anatomy-and-structure-of-endothelial-cells\" title=\"Anatomy and Structure of Endothelial Cells\">Anatomy and Structure of Endothelial Cells<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/endothelial-cells\/#functions-of-the-endothelial-cells\" title=\"Functions of the Endothelial Cells\">Functions of the Endothelial Cells<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/endothelial-cells\/#diseases-and-disorders-of-endothelial-cells\" title=\"Diseases and Disorders of Endothelial Cells\">Diseases and Disorders of Endothelial Cells<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/endothelial-cells\/#references\" title=\"References\">References<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"types-of-endothelial-cells\"><\/span><strong>Types of Endothelial Cells<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Endothelial cells can be categorized into two types based on their location and function: vascular endothelial cells and lymphatic endothelial cells.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1-vascular-endothelial-cells\"><\/span><strong>1. Vascular Endothelial Cells<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Vascular endothelial cells (VECs) are a type of endothelial cells that cover the inside walls of blood vessels, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/capillaries\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"41995\">capillaries<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/veins\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"41993\">veins<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/arteries\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"41991\">arteries<\/a>, and act as a protective barrier between the circulating blood and the surrounding tissues.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>These cells perform vital functions such as regulating blood flow, controlling the transfer of nutrients, gases, and waste products, maintaining vascular tone, and preventing blood clot formation. They also participate in immune responses, inflammation, and angiogenesis.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>VECs have specialized characteristics depending on where they are located in the vascular system. For example, endothelial cells in arteries may experience higher shear stress from blood flow and thus may have different structural and functional features compared to those in veins or capillaries.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2-lymphatic-endothelial-cells\"><\/span><strong>2. Lymphatic Endothelial Cells<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) are endothelial cells found in the inner walls of lymphatic vessels, which are part of the <a href=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/lymphatic-system-organs\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"41969\">lymphatic system<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>These specialized cells are responsible for transporting lymph, a fluid rich in white blood cells, proteins, and cellular waste, from the tissues back into the bloodstream. They also play important roles in immune surveillance, maintaining fluid balance, and the absorption of dietary fats from the intestines.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>LECs regulate the flow of lymph and maintain fluid balance. By forming the inner lining of lymphatic vessels, LECs help ensure that lymph is properly collected, transported, and filtered through the lymph nodes.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"anatomy-and-structure-of-endothelial-cells\"><\/span><strong>Anatomy and Structure of Endothelial Cells<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The anatomy and structure of endothelial cells show diversity, with distinct subtypes existing based on their location and function. They are present in all major vessels, surrounded by thick layers of connective tissue and smooth muscle cells.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The endothelium contains a single layer of endothelial cells supported by a thin layer of extracellular matrix known as the basal lamina. Pericytes and smooth muscle cells may also be present in larger blood vessels, providing structural support and regulating vessel diameter.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Endothelial cells attach to the basal lamina, together forming the innermost layer of the blood vessel wall known as the tunica intima which provides a smooth surface for blood to flow, facilitating circulation throughout the body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Endothelial cells are thin and elongated, forming a continuous barrier separating the bloodstream from the surrounding tissues. They measure approximately 30 to 50 \u00b5m in length, 10 to 30 \u00b5m in width, and 0.1 to 10 \u00b5m in thickness. Despite their small size, they collectively cover a vast surface area within the body.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These cells show morphological and functional variations based on their location and specific function. For example, endothelial cells in large arteries may differ in structure and function from those in small capillaries.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"functions-of-the-endothelial-cells\"><\/span><strong>Functions of the Endothelial Cells<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Hemostasis<\/strong>: Endothelial cells initiate hemostasis by constricting blood vessels to reduce blood flow at the site of injury. They release substances like von Willebrand factor (vWF) and tissue factor to activate platelets, helping in blood clot formation. Endothelial cells promote platelet adhesion by exposing collagen and vWF, promoting platelet binding.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Prevention of Thrombosis<\/strong>: Endothelial cells prevent thrombosis through anticoagulant and antiplatelet mechanisms, ensuring clot formation only at sites of injury. These cells produce substances such as nitric oxide (NO) and prostacyclin, which inhibit blood clot formation and promote blood fluidity. Endothelial dysfunction can disrupt this balance, leading to bleeding or thrombosis, and contributing to several vascular complications.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Leukocyte Interaction<\/strong>: Endothelial cells facilitate the movement of leukocytes from the bloodstream into the surrounding tissues. This process is necessary for immune responses and inflammation. This involves leukocyte capture, rolling, firm adhesion, and migration across the endothelium. Endothelial adhesion molecules like selectins and integrins, along with their ligands on leukocytes, help these interactions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Vascular permeability<\/strong>: Endothelial cells regulate the movement of substances, including fluids, electrolytes, and other molecules, between the blood and surrounding tissues. They form a selectively permeable barrier with tight junctions under normal conditions. They maintain the integrity of the vascular barrier, ensuring substances like nutrients and oxygen can pass while preventing the leakage of harmful substances into tissues.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Regulation of Vascular Tone<\/strong>: Regulation of vascular tone refers to the adjustment of the diameter of blood vessels to control blood flow and maintain blood pressure within a normal range. This process involves the contraction (vasoconstriction) or relaxation (vasodilation) of the blood vessels. Endothelial cells release various vasoactive substances that affect vascular tone, including vasodilators like nitric oxide and vasoconstrictors like endothelin. These molecules help regulate blood vessel diameter and blood flow.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Angiogenesis<\/strong>: Endothelial cells are also involved in angiogenesis, the process of formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones. Angiogenesis is essential for processes like wound healing and is involved in various pathological conditions, like inflammatory disorders and cancer.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1500\" height=\"829\" src=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Angiogenesis.jpeg\" alt=\"Angiogenesis\" class=\"wp-image-43675\" srcset=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Angiogenesis.jpeg 1500w, https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Angiogenesis-300x166.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Angiogenesis-1024x566.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Angiogenesis-768x424.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Angiogenesis<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"diseases-and-disorders-of-endothelial-cells\"><\/span><strong>Diseases and Disorders of Endothelial Cells<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Endothelial dysfunction<\/strong> refers to an imbalance in the behavior of the endothelial cells which leads to reduced vasodilation, inflammation, and an increased risk for blood clot formation. It occurs due to the imbalance in the production of nitric oxide. This condition can cause various cardiovascular diseases, like hypertension, heart failure, diabetes, and chronic kidney failure. Factors like obesity, smoking, poor sleep, infections, and high sugar intake can damage the endothelium.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Atherosclerosis <\/strong>is a cardiovascular disease where plaque builds up within artery walls. This plaque is made up of substances like fatty deposits, cellular waste, and other blood components. Over time, these deposits narrow the arteries, reducing blood flow to vital organs and tissues and increasing the risk of blood clots. It can result in serious complications like heart attacks and strokes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1500\" height=\"785\" src=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Atherosclerosis-Progression.jpg\" alt=\"Atherosclerosis\" class=\"wp-image-41829\" srcset=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Atherosclerosis-Progression.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Atherosclerosis-Progression-300x157.jpg 300w, https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Atherosclerosis-Progression-1024x536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Atherosclerosis-Progression-768x402.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Atherosclerosis<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) <\/strong>happens when blood vessels in the limbs narrow or get blocked resulting in reduced blood flow and symptoms like leg pain and cramping during physical activity. Endothelial dysfunction contributes to the progression of PVD with risk factors including smoking, diabetes, previous coronary artery disease, and lack of activity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Coronary artery disease (CAD)<\/strong> is characterized by narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart, leading to an imbalance in oxygen demand and supply in the heart tissue. It develops due to the accumulation of plaques in the walls of the coronary artery.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1050\" src=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Coronary-Artery-Disease.jpg\" alt=\"Coronary artery disease\" class=\"wp-image-41990\" srcset=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Coronary-Artery-Disease.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Coronary-Artery-Disease-300x210.jpg 300w, https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Coronary-Artery-Disease-1024x717.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Coronary-Artery-Disease-768x538.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Coronary artery disease<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Stroke<\/strong>, especially ischemic stroke, is linked to endothelial dysfunction which leads to the development of atherosclerosis in cerebral arteries, predisposing individuals to ischemic stroke.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1095\" src=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Common-Types-of-Stroke.jpeg\" alt=\"Common Types of Stroke\" class=\"wp-image-43676\" srcset=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Common-Types-of-Stroke.jpeg 1500w, https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Common-Types-of-Stroke-300x219.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Common-Types-of-Stroke-1024x748.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Common-Types-of-Stroke-768x561.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Common Types of Stroke<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Chronic kidney disease (CKD)<\/strong> occurs when the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste from the blood. This can lead to the accumulation of toxins and waste products in the body, which causes various health issues over time. Endothelial dysfunction plays a role in CKD by damaging the blood vessels in the kidneys.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"references\"><\/span><strong>References<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>Alberts B, Johnson A, Lewis J, et al. Molecular Biology of the Cell. 4th edition. New York: Garland Science; 2002. Blood Vessels and Endothelial Cells. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK26848\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK26848\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Endothelial Cells &#8211; What You Should Know &#8211; PromoCell<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>F\u00e9l\u00e9tou M. The Endothelium: Part 1: Multiple Functions of the Endothelial Cells\u2014Focus on Endothelium-Derived Vasoactive Mediators. San Rafael (CA): Morgan &amp; Claypool Life Sciences; 2011. Available from: https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK57149\/<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gul F, Janzer SF. Peripheral Vascular Disease. [Updated 2023 Jun 6]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK557482\/<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Kerr P, Tam R, Plane F. Endothelium. In: Fitridge R, Thompson M, editors. Mechanisms of Vascular Disease: A Reference Book for Vascular Specialists [Internet]. Adelaide (AU): University of Adelaide Press; 2011. 1. Available from: https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK534266\/<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Kr\u00fcger-Genge, A., Blocki, A., Franke, R. P., &amp; Jung, F. (2019). Vascular Endothelial Cell Biology: An Update. International journal of molecular sciences, 20(18), 4411. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3390\/ijms20184411<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pahwa R, Jialal I. Atherosclerosis. [Updated 2023 Aug 8]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK507799\/<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rajendran, P., Rengarajan, T., Thangavel, J., Nishigaki, Y., Sakthisekaran, D., Sethi, G., &amp; Nishigaki, I. (2013). The vascular endothelium and human diseases. International journal of biological sciences, 9(10), 1057\u20131069. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.7150\/ijbs.7502<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shahjehan RD, Bhutta BS. Coronary Artery Disease. [Updated 2023 Aug 17]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK564304\/<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tewalt, E. F., Cohen, J. N., Rouhani, S. J., &amp; Engelhard, V. H. (2012). Lymphatic endothelial cells &#8211; key players in regulation of tolerance and immunity. Frontiers in immunology, 3, 305. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3389\/fimmu.2012.00305<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What is the Endothelium? (clevelandclinic.org)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Endothelial cells are specialized cells that cover the inside walls of blood vessels and lymphatic vessels. They form a thin and delicate layer of endothelium, which acts as a barrier &#8230; <a title=\"Endothelial Cells: Definition, Types, Structure, Functions\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/endothelial-cells\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Endothelial Cells: Definition, Types, Structure, Functions\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":27,"featured_media":43674,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3177],"tags":[],"custom":{"td_video":"","featured_image":"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Endothelial-Cells.jpeg","author":{"name":"Sanju Tamang","avatar":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/f337d733e7b15ac78c15677d4185c8ef?s=96&d=mm&r=g"},"categories":[{"term_id":3177,"name":"Cell Biology","slug":"cell-biology","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":3177,"taxonomy":"category","description":"<strong>Cell biology or cytology is a branch of biology that deals with studies related to the structure and function of a cell-based on the concept that the cell is the fundamental unit of life.<\/strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A detailed study of the cellular structure and function provides a basis for studies related to tissues, organs, and the body.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The number of cells in an organism might differ as some organisms have a single cell while others are made up of billions of cells.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">In the case of single-celled organisms, the singular cell is studied, whereas, for multicellular organisms, individual cells of different tissues are studied.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Initially, only the outer structure of a cell was studied due to the lack of complex microscopic processes.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Over the years, however, advancements in other areas have made it possible to study the internal cellular components of a cell.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Apart from the cell structure and function, cell biology also deals with cell communication and signaling.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Cell biology also involves the studying of the cell cycle and cell division, which provides insight into the cellular composition of an organism.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Cell biology is also linked with other studies like genetics, molecular biology, cytochemistry, and biochemistry.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Cells are distinguished as prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells based on the complexity of the cell.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Cell biology enables studying the biochemical mechanisms involved in cell metabolism and different forms of cellular energy.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Focusing on the structural and functional aspects of a single cell allows a detailed understanding of the body overall.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">It is also easier to perform research on a single cell as it can be modified and observed efficiently.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Techniques in cell biology have advanced over the years with new and improved imaging techniques to observe smaller cellular organelles.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Cell biology, together with systemic biology, helps in the answering of complex questions like the relationship between cellular networks, the evolutionary relationship between genomes, and the complexity of the biomolecular composition of different living organisms.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>","parent":0,"count":107,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":3177,"category_count":107,"category_description":"<strong>Cell biology or cytology is a branch of biology that deals with studies related to the structure and function of a cell-based on the concept that the cell is the fundamental unit of life.<\/strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A detailed study of the cellular structure and function provides a basis for studies related to tissues, organs, and the body.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The number of cells in an organism might differ as some organisms have a single cell while others are made up of billions of cells.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">In the case of single-celled organisms, the singular cell is studied, whereas, for multicellular organisms, individual cells of different tissues are studied.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Initially, only the outer structure of a cell was studied due to the lack of complex microscopic processes.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Over the years, however, advancements in other areas have made it possible to study the internal cellular components of a cell.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Apart from the cell structure and function, cell biology also deals with cell communication and signaling.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Cell biology also involves the studying of the cell cycle and cell division, which provides insight into the cellular composition of an organism.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Cell biology is also linked with other studies like genetics, molecular biology, cytochemistry, and biochemistry.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Cells are distinguished as prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells based on the complexity of the cell.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Cell biology enables studying the biochemical mechanisms involved in cell metabolism and different forms of cellular energy.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Focusing on the structural and functional aspects of a single cell allows a detailed understanding of the body overall.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">It is also easier to perform research on a single cell as it can be modified and observed efficiently.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Techniques in cell biology have advanced over the years with new and improved imaging techniques to observe smaller cellular organelles.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Cell biology, together with systemic biology, helps in the answering of complex questions like the relationship between cellular networks, the evolutionary relationship between genomes, and the complexity of the biomolecular composition of different living organisms.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>","cat_name":"Cell Biology","category_nicename":"cell-biology","category_parent":0}]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43672"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/27"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=43672"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43672\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":43677,"href":"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43672\/revisions\/43677"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/43674"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=43672"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=43672"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/microbenotes.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=43672"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}