The Endothelium

The Endothelium: Modulator of Cardiovascular Function takes a comprehensive look at the role of the endothelium in cardiovascular control in health and disease. Experts offer detailed reviews on specific topics that address these roles of the endothelium: diffusion barrier, blood-brain barrier, regulator of capillary permeability, metabolic function (uptake and enzymatic destruction), conversion of vasoactive products, production of prostanoids, production and release of endothelium-derived relaxing factors, production of endothelium-derived contracting factors, production of coagulation factors, production of fibrinolytic factors, reticulo-endothelial function, role in atherosclerosis, and changes in function with aging and disease. This overview provides the reader with an update on the role of one of the most fascinating cells in cardiovascular biology. It focuses on the multiple functions of those cells and offers the first attempt to draw a parallel between these functions. Anyone studying the fields of physiology and pharmacology will benefit from this "must have" reference resource.