Blood vessel physiology and pathophysiology.

The vascular system is complex, with functions in the active modulation of metabolic and hemodynamic processes as well as in transport. Vascular smooth muscle is the primary effector component of the vessel wall and is regulated in its activity by local endothelial cell and neural activity in addition to circulating substances. The vascular endothelial cell has only recently been fully recognized to possess a vast array of metabolic capabilities that are yet to be completely understood. Endothelial cell-derived vasoactive substances, their release, and interactions with blood constituents and vascular smooth muscle are new areas of clinical research which hold significant implications for the physiology and pathophysiology of blood vessels.