The endothelial glycocalyx (EGC) is a layer of proteoglycans (associated with glycosaminoglycans) and glycoproteins, which adsorbs plasma proteins on the luminal surface of endothelial cells. Its main function is to participate in separating the circulating blood from the inner layers of the vessels and the surrounding tissues. Physiologically, the EGC stimulates mechanotransduction, the endothelial charge, thrombocyte adhesion, leukocyte tissue recruitment, and molecule extravasation. Hence, severe impairment of the EGC has been implicated in various pathological conditions, including sepsis, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, inflammatory disorders, hypernatremia, hypervolemia, atherosclerosis, and ischemia/reperfusion injury. Moreover, alterations in EGC have been associated with altered responses to therapeutic interventions in conditions such as cardiovascular diseases. Investigation into the function of the glycocalyx has expanded knowledge about vascular disorders and indicated the need to consider new approaches in the treatment of severe endothelial dysfunction. This review aims to present the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying cardiovascular diseases and to elucidate the impact of heart surgery on EGC dysfunction.
Keywords: cardiology; endothelial dysfunction; endothelial glycocalyx (EGC); vascular endothelium; vascular health.