Sex differences in vascular endothelial cells

Endothelial cells are important constituents of blood vessels and play a critical role in vascular homeostasis. They do not only control the exchanges between the blood and the surrounding tissues, but are also essential in regulating blood flow, modulating immune-cell trafficking and controlling vascular growth and repair. Endo-thelial dysfunction leads to cardiovascular diseases and is characterized by deficiency in secretion of vasodilator molecules, elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS), expression of adhesion molecules and excretion of proin-flammatory cytokines. The sex hormones, estrogens, androgens and progestogens, regulate endothelial functions. Because cardiovascular disease risk increases after menopause, it is believed that female hormones, estrogens and progestogens promote endothelial cell health and function whereas androgens, the male hormones, might be detrimental. However, as illustrated in the present review, the picture might not be that simple. In addition, sex influences endothelial cell physiology independently of sex hormones but at genetic level.

Automated summary

Endothelial cells are crucial for vascular homeostasis and play a vital role in controlling blood flow, immune cell trafficking, and vascular growth and repair. Dysfunction of endothelial cells, characterized by impaired secretion of vasodilator molecules, increased reactive oxygen species, expression of adhesion molecules, and secretion of proinflammatory cytokines, leads to cardiovascular diseases. Sex hormones, such as estrogens, androgens, and progestogens, regulate endothelial functions. However, gender also influences endothelial cell physiology at the genetic level.