The Role of Glycocalyx and Caveolae in Vascular Homeostasis and Diseases

Abstract

This review highlights recent findings about the role that endothelial glycocalyx and caveolae play in vascular homeostasis. We describe the structure, synthesis, and function of glycocalyx and caveolae in vascular cells under physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Special focus will be given in glycocalyx and caveolae that are associated with impaired production of nitric oxide (NO) and generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Such alterations could contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis, and hypertension.

Keywords: ROS; atherosclerosis; caveolae; eNOS; endothelial cells; glycocalyx; hypertension; vascular tone.