Endothelial Microparticles: Mediators or Markers of Endothelial Cell Dysfunction?

Microparticles are small membrane vesicles released from the plasma membrane into the extracellular space by different cell types both in vivo and in vitro. Formation of microparticles is a part of normal cellular function, but it is increased in many diseases accompanied by endothelial cell dysfunction. This review summarizes the mechanisms of microparticle formation and the role of circulating endothelial microparticles in the development of endothelial cell dysfunction. This article also discuss the recent advances in microparticle research in cardiovascular diseases.