Endothelial Cell Markers

Endothelial cells line the interior of all blood vessels and are typically one of the most quiescent cell types in the body. These cells are derived from a common angioblast precursor and subsequently develop organ specific properties. Although embryonic endothelial cells exhibit much heterogeneity within and between organs, multiple proteins expressed by endothelial cells can be used to distinguish these cells from other cell types in the body. Differentiation of endothelial cells is governed by several factors, including the immediate microenvironment, interactions with surrounding cells, and the local release of cytokines and growth factors

Images: LYVE-1 staining of endothelial cells of human lung blood vessels. Note presence of RBCs within vessel lumen.