What is the primary role of endothelial cells in tissue repair?

The primary role of endothelial cells in tissue repair is their involvement in the formation of new blood vessels, a process known as angiogenesis. During the healing process, endothelial cells migrate and proliferate to form new capillary structures, which supply oxygen and nutrients to the newly formed tissue. This is crucial because adequate blood supply is essential for successful tissue repair and regeneration.

Endothelial cells also participate in the regulation of vascular permeability and can release various signaling molecules that facilitate healing and inflammation. By forming new blood vessels, they ensure that the repair site receives the necessary components for tissue regeneration and helps to clear away waste products, thereby supporting the overall healing process effectively.

Other functions such as forming connective tissue or producing collagen are primarily carried out by fibroblasts, while the regulation of the immune response is more closely associated with immune cells rather than endothelial cells.