Endothelial cells (family)

The endothelial cells line the interior surface of blood vessels and lymphatic vessels, providing an anticoagulant barrier between the vessel wall and blood. The endothelial cells react to environmental changes and regulate hemostasis, vasomotor tone, and immune and inflammatory responses. They contain unique Weibel-Palade bodies. The endothelial lining of the blood vessels of different organs differs with respect to morphology and permeability and is classified as 'continuous', 'fenestrated' or 'discontinuous'.