Figure 1.

Mediators of endothelial dysfunction and endothelium-derived factors that influence the development and progression of atherosclerosis. Cardiovascular risk factors render the endothelium susceptible to the generation of atherosclerosis. Endothelial dysfunction affects vascular reactivity. Cytokines, inflammatory mediators, reactive oxygen species, and pro-thrombotic factors draw endothelial cells into thrombotic and immune responses. Under pathophysiological conditions, endothelial cells release hormones, cytokines and growth factors that impact vascular contractility.