Molecular Classification
Other
Other Names
Vascular integrity, Vessel wall stability, Endothelial integrity, Vascular wall integrity
Disease Roles
Cardiovascular diseaseHemorrhageAtherosclerosis

Blood vessel wall integrity Overview

Blood vessel wall integrity refers to the structural stability and function of the vessel wall, primarily maintained by interactions among endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, pericytes, platelets, and extracellular matrix proteins such as collagen and laminin. These cells and matrix proteins create a barrier that regulates blood passage, prevents leakage, and responds dynamically to injury, inflammation, and hemodynamic stress. Disruption of this integrity can result in hemorrhage, edema, or the development of atherosclerotic lesions, and many vascular diseases stem from failure of these protective mechanisms. Several signaling pathways and molecular interactions (e.g., integrins, Notch3, matrix proteins, and platelet-collagen interactions) are essential for the maintenance of blood vessel wall integrity.

Mechanism of Action

Inhibition of platelet activation/aggregation; Modulation of endothelial cell signaling and survival; Inhibition of vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation; Reduction of inflammation in vessel walls

Biological Functions

Maintenance of vascular barrier
Hemostasis
Vessel stabilization
Regulation of permeability
Inflammation response
Prevention of bleeding

Disease Associations

Cardiovascular disease
Hemorrhage
Atherosclerosis
Inflammatory vascular disease
Blood-brain barrier disruption

Safety Considerations

  • Increased risk of bleeding/hemorrhage with drugs that decrease clotting
  • Risk of thrombosis if vessel wall integrity is pathologically altered
  • Vascular leak syndrome as a potential side effect of some biologics

Interacting Drugs

Antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin, clopidogrel)
Anticoagulants (e.g., heparin, warfarin)
Anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., corticosteroids)
Statins (indirect effect via endothelial function)
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (through vascular remodeling)

Associated Biomarkers

Biomarker
Endothelial cell markers (e.g., von Willebrand factor, ICAM-1)
Platelet count
Circulating endothelial cells
C-reactive protein (CRP) (inflammation marker)
Collagen or laminin fragments (extracellular matrix turnover)