Biologyreview2026-09-16

The critical role of endothelial cells: Complications and management – A narrative review

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Abstract

Endothelial cells (ECs) form a selective barrier between blood vessels and surrounding tissues. They tightly regulate the passage of substances through blood vessels. ECs are crucial for regulating immunological responses, managing blood flow, and maintaining vascular stability. Disruption in endothelial cell function may lead to several complications, such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, and diabetic vascular issues. This review provides an in-depth analysis of endothelial cell biology, endothelial dysfunction-related disorders, and therapeutic approaches to address them. The role of ECs in maintaining vascular health, the core processes causing their dysfunction, and available strategies for endothelial cell repair and regeneration are emphasized through a comprehensive review of recent studies. The findings highlight the importance of early diagnosis and targeted therapy to prevent serious vascular complications and improve patient outcomes. The aim of this study is to serve as a useful resource for researchers and medical professionals seeking to enhance vascular health and develop novel treatments for endothelial-related disorders. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

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View paper (DOI)Open access versionOpenAlexJournal of King Saud University - SciencePublished 2026-09-16

Authors: Muhammad Ijaz, Muhammad Shahbaz, Fouzia Latif, Nan Xu, Hailing Ding, Weilu Tian

Institutions: Shandong University, Qilu University of Technology, Shandong Academy of Chinese Medicine