Endothelium, Vascular
| Definition: |
Single pavement layer of cells which line the luminal surface of the entire vascular system and regulate the transport of macromolecules and blood components from interstitium to lumen; this function has been most intensively studied in the blood capillaries. |
| Also Called: |
Capillary Endothelium |
| Previously Indexed: |
Blood Vessels or specific (1966-1987),Capillaries (1966-1987),Endothelium (1973-1987) |
Endothelium, Vascular Categories.
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Pericytes - Slender, contractile, mesenchymal-like cells found in close association with capillary walls. They are relatively undifferentiated and may become fibroblasts, macrophages, or smooth muscle cells. (From Stedman, 26th ed) |
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Tunica Intima - The innermost coat of blood vessels, consisting of a thin lining of endothelial cells longitudinally oriented and continuous with the endothelium of capillaries on the one hand and the endocardium of the heart on the other. |
Endothelium, Vascular Definitions and Terms
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