Alexa Fluor® 488 Anti-Endothelial Cell antibody [RECA-1]

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Endothelial cells sometimes referred to as endothelium form the thin layer of approximately 1-2 µm thickness that lines the interior surface of blood vessels and lymphatic vessels. They possess a considerable array of roles mainly being a barrier between the vessel lumen and surrounding tissue and they regulate the passage of materials and the transit of white blood cells into and out of the bloodstream. Endothelial cells are widespread found in veins arteries capillaries and the heart. These cells express a variety of markers used to identify them and antibodies targeting endothelial markers are valuable tools in research and diagnostics.

Biological function summary

Endothelial cells maintain vascular tone and blood fluidity and they mediate angiogenesis which is the development of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones. They achieve these functions through the expression of adhesion molecules and growth factors. Endothelial cells contribute to the formation of a selective permeability barrier and respond to mechanical and chemical signals. They do not function alone; they are part of a larger vascular complex that includes smooth muscle cells and pericytes.

Pathways

Endothelial cells play key roles in the nitric oxide (NO) signaling and angiogenesis pathways. They produce nitric oxide a critical molecule for vasodilation and blood pressure regulation through the action of enzymes like endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). In the angiogenesis pathway endothelial cells interact with proteins like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) which signals the proliferation and migration processes necessary for new blood vessel formation.

Associated diseases and disorders

Endothelial dysfunction links to cardiovascular conditions like atherosclerosis and hypertension. Damage or alteration in endothelial cell function can lead to abnormal vascular behavior. Oxidative stress and inflammation often disrupt endothelial activity involving proteins such as E-selectin and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) contributing to disease progression. Understanding these associations highlights the importance of endothelial cell studies in addressing cardiovascular disorders.