Endothelial Function

Yet another post from PHYL3002 that draws on a lot of stuff from PHYL2001! Ah well, it's always good to have a refresher :)

Explain the structure and function of endothelial cells

Endothelial cells are thin, flattened cells that make up the lining of the blood vessel (i.e. the endothelium). Their size and their ability to overlap with each other and form tubes means that they are good at letting some substances through, but not others. This makes them good at filtering blood, especially at the level of the capillaries, which are made up of only a single layer of endothelial cells (see here).

The endothelium is also important in the inflammatory response. You can read more on inflammation here.

Endothelial cells are sometimes supported by other cells called pericytes. These are small mesenchymal-like cells that are relatively undifferentiated, but can differentiate into fibroblasts, smooth muscle cells or macrophages. They are important in angiogenesis and stability of the blood-brain barrier.

Describe the processes and determining factors of filtration and absorption across the capillary

See earlier post: Microcirculation and Blood Flow

Explain the role of the lymphatic system in systemic circulation

Again, see my earlier post on microcirculation and blood flow.

Wow, that was easy...