Endothelium facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Endothelium |
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| Diagram showing the location of endothelial cells | |
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| Transmission electron micrograph of a microvessel showing endothelial cells, which encircle an erythrocyte (E), forming the innermost layer of the vessel, the tunica intima. | |
| System | Circulatory system |
Endothelium is a layer of cells that line the walls of the circulatory system which carries blood around the body. The cells form a membrane so that certain substances, such as nutrients, can move through the walls. In an adult human there is about 1 kg of endothelium cells, which would cover an area of about 7m2. The endothelium plays an important part in controlling the flow of blood around the body.
Images for kids
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Endothelium lines the inner wall of vessels, shown here.
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Microscopic view showing endothelium (at top) inside the heart.
See also
In Spanish: Endotelio para niños
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Endothelium Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.