The kidney, characterized by its high perfusion rate, contains a complex network of endothelial cells (ECs) with specialized functions across diverse vascular segments. Loss of capillary density, or microvascular rarefaction, is a defining yet often overlooked feature of chronic kidney disease (CKD). As the interface between the bloodstream and renal parenchyma, ECs exhibit remarkable plasticity, dynamically adapting to physiological and pathologic conditions. The renal endothelium consists of phenotypically and metabolically heterogeneous populations that respond distinctly to injury and inflammation.
The kidney, characterized by its high perfusion rate, contains a complex network of endothelial cells (ECs) with specialized functions across diverse vascular segments. Loss of capillary density, or microvascular rarefaction, is a defining yet often overlooked feature of chronic kidney disease (CKD). As the interface between the bloodstream and renal parenchyma, ECs exhibit remarkable plasticity, dynamically adapting to physiological and pathologic conditions. The renal endothelium consists of phenotypically and metabolically heterogeneous populations that respond distinctly to injury and inflammation.