More than Just a Monolayer: the Multifaceted Role of Endothelial Cells in the Pathophysiology of Atherosclerosis

AbstractPurpose of the ReviewIn this review, we summarize current insights into the versatile roles of endothelial cells in atherogenesis.Recent FindingsThe vascular endothelium represents the first barrier that prevents the entry of lipoproteins and leukocytes into the vessel wall, thereby controlling two key events in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Disturbance of endothelial homeostasis increases vascular permeability, inflammation, and cellular trans-differentiation, which not only promotes the build-up of atherosclerotic plaques but is also involved in life-threatening thromboembolic complications such as plaque rupture and erosion. In this review, we focus on recent findings on endothelial lipoprotein transport, inflammation, cellular transitions, and barrier function.SummaryBy using cutting-edge technologies such as single-cell sequencing, epigenetics, and cell fate mapping, novel regulatory mechanisms and endothelial cell phenotypes have been discovered, which have not only challenged established concepts of endothelial activation, but have also led to a different view of the disease.

Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports - April 11, 2022 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research