Endothelial cell dynamics and complexity theory

Objective., To apply complexity theory to understanding endothelial cell function In health and disease. Data Sources and Study Selection: Published research and review articles In the English language related to complexity theory and endothelial cell biology. Data Extraction and Synthesis. The results of published studies have been used to generate a hypothesis of nonlinear dynamics in endothelial cell biology. Conclusions. The endothelium displays nonlinear complexity. I propose a model in which healthy endothelium retains a broad range of responses and is therefore highly active, whereas dysfunctional endothelium becomes locked into a narrow range of responses, approaching a single steady state and eventual quiescence. These concepts lay a foundation for understanding the pathophysiology of endothelial cell dysfunction in the multiple organ dysfunction syndrome.