Experimental Models of Endothelial Dysfunction: Why Create Them and Are They?

Endothelial dysfunction (ED), a typical pathological condition accompanying most diseases associated with disturbances of homeostasis, is often secondary in nature but has independent pathogenetic significance, contributing to the development of atherosclerosis, thrombosis, and organ complications. Therefore, an important objective of experimental research is to reproduce ED as an independent research target for studying its mechanisms and methods for its correction. This review summarizes the existing approaches to modeling ED: in vitro models based on animal- and human-derived endothelial cell cultures, including organ-specific cell lines, as well as three-dimensional bioengineered vascular constructs and organ-on-achip systems; ex vivo models involving the study of vascular fragments or isolated perfused organs, where the endothelium retains its natural microenvironment; and in vivo models, which provide the most complete reproduction of clinical conditions. 

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