Work

Roles of endothelial cells during infection

Year: 2025

Type: review

Abstract: Endothelial cells (ECs) integrate immune and vascular functions to promote host defense against pathogens. While previously studied as forming passive flow conduits, ECs are now recognized as active contributors to maladaptive inflammation. During acute infection, ECs may promote tissue pathologies, including hypoxia, acidosis, electrolyte disturbances, and capillary barrier breakdown. These pathologies significantly contribute to organ dysfunction and septic shock. In chronic vascular infection, ECs may promote loss of vascular quiescence, contributing to vascular malformations and vaso-occlusive lesions. In this review, we discuss the interplay between the immune and vascular roles of blood ECs, an emerging area of interest with therapeutic implications. While previously overlooked, therapies targeting dysregulation of EC function(s) may show clinical benefit towards improving outcomes related to both acute and chronic forms of infection.

Source: Current Opinion in Immunology

DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2025.102648

Authors: Zihan Ma, Richard W Pierce, Carrie L Lucas, Clara Abraham, Carlos Fernandez-Hernando, Dan Jane-wit

Institutions: Yale University, VA Connecticut Healthcare System

Language: English

Topic: Sepsis Diagnosis and Treatment

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,410