Endothelial Activation

During acute inflammation, endothelial activation in veinules accompanies many other vascular changes.

Endothelial activation refers to changes in cell surface molecules on the endothelium, facilitating leukocyte binding and extravasation.

 

Endothelial activation and subsequent tissue factor synthesis is important in hemostasis.

 

Signals for Endothelial Activation

Various signals can cause endothelial activation. These include infectious agents (bacterial endotoxin) hemodynamic factors, plasma components, and most importantly, cytokines:

Molecular Changes During Endothelial Activation