The Glycocalyx

The Glycocalyx

Protects: Provides protection to the endothelial wall, which is only 1 cell layer thick.

Gateway: Allows nutrients to be passed through and waste to be removed.

Transports: Provides the mechanism of action to release Nitric Oxide into the vessel and stimulate vasomotion.

Over time, healthy glycocalyx gets damaged and the endothelial wall becomes venerable to attack from substances in the blood that cause scaring, plaque, clots and calcification.