Due to its tight specialised cell-to-cell junctions, the endothelium forms a barrier that selectively limits the movement of macromolecules
Activated endothelial cells may release various cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors that promote the proliferation, migration, and permeability of endothelial cells.
The endothelial cells with inflammatory phenotype cause inflammation in the blood vessels, resulting in endothelial dysfunction and following progression of CVD.