Glycocalyx Gone Awry: Pathologic Cell Signaling during Endotheliopathy

Abstract

The endothelial glycocalyx is a viscous mesh that lines the vascular lumen and serves a variety of functions in health and disease. This gelatinous matrix of proteoglycans and glycosaminoglycans is the critical contact point between the circulation and end organs, transmitting physical and biochemical signals through the endothelial surface layer to affect endothelial cell activity that subsequently impacts organ function. In this review we explore the roles of the major structural components of the glycocalyx in mediating cell signaling events during inflammatory-induced endotheliopathy. We also discuss proposed therapeutic strategies to attenuate glycocalyx disruption and promote its regeneration.