Vascular endothelial cell lipid bilayer

The vascular endothelial cell lipid bilayer is the semi-permeable plasma membrane that encloses endothelial cells, forming the critical interface between circulating blood and the vessel wall. It is composed of a complex mixture of phospholipids, cholesterol, and glycolipids that provide structural integrity and organize signaling microdomains known as lipid rafts (StatPearls, 2023). This bilayer plays a vital role in vascular homeostasis by regulating the selective permeability of solutes and the recruitment of immune cells during inflammation (NCBI, 2022). In conditions such as atherosclerosis and diabetes, the lipid composition and fluidity of the membrane are often compromised, contributing to endothelial dysfunction and plaque formation (Journal of Lipid Research, 2021). Although it is not a traditional molecular target like a specific protein, its properties are modulated by drugs such as statins, which alter cholesterol levels, and it serves as a docking site for various liposomal drug delivery systems (PubMed, 2020). Understanding the biophysical state of this membrane is essential for developing therapies aimed at restoring vascular barrier function and reducing systemic inflammation.

Other names

Endothelial plasma membraneVascular endothelial membraneVEC plasma membrane

Modulation of membrane fluidity, cholesterol depletion, and stabilization of endothelial barrier proteins.