Endothelium
Appearance
Endothelium | |
---|---|
![]() Diagram showing the location of endothelial cells | |
![]() Transmission electron micrograph of a microvessel showing endothelial cells, which encircle an erythrocyte (E), forming the innermost layer of the vessel, the tunica intima. | |
Details | |
System | Circulatory system |
Location | Lining of the inner surface of blood vessels and lymphatic vessels |
Identifiers | |
MeSH | D004727 |
TH | H2.00.02.0.02003 |
FMA | 63916 |
Anatomical terms of microanatomy |
Endothelium is a layer of cells that line the walls of the circulatory system which carries blood around the body.[1] The cells form a membrane so that certain substances, such as nutrients, can move through the walls. In an adult human there is about 1 kg of endothelium cells, which would cover an area of about 7m2.[1] The endothelium plays an important part in controlling the flow of blood around the body.
References
[change | change source]- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Cines, Douglas B. (2012). "Endothelial Cells in Physiology and in the Pathophysiology of Vascular Disorders". bloodjournal.hematologylibrary.org. Retrieved 25 October 2012.