| Popis: |
Delivery of blood to bodily tissues and organs is the responsibility of the arterial side of the circulatory system. The inner most component of the vascular wall that is in contact with circulated blood is a layer of cells known as the endothelium. Normally, endothelial cells interact with blood in a fashion that influences the smooth muscles of the vascular wall and prevents adhesion of platelets and other circulating cells. Such interactions involve production and release of substances that maintain vascular diameter or dilate it. Healthy endothelium ensures proper patency of vessels and, consequently, proper tissue perfusion. The purpose of this review is to briefly explain the role of healthy endothelium, causes of endothelial dysfunction, assessment of endothelial dysfunction, and the consequences of such dysfunction in relation to cardiovascular disease. This review also explores aspects of maintaining a healthy endothelium and remedies for the reversal of its dysfunction. |
