| [ Summary ] |
Vascular endothelial cells exert a variety of actions, which play a central role in the regulation of vascular structural integrity as well as dynamic vascular function. The activation of endothelial cells by various stimuli such as oxidized LDL is essential for atherogenesis. The endothelial-monocyte adhesion is the first step in atherogenesis, and subsequently various events, such as foam cell formation, migration and proliferation of smooth muscle cells and platelet aggregation, ensue. The endothelial cells regulate these events. The endothelial NO, free radicals, growth factors and cytokines, and these factor are also involved in the process of atherogenesis. |