Quick Facts
The subendothelial layer is a middle, fibrous layer of the tunica intima of typical blood vessels, located between the endothelium and internal elastic membrane; it also comprises the bulk of the endocardium, where it lies deep to the lining endothelium. It is composed of varying amounts of collagen and elastic fibers and smooth muscle cells (Dorland, 2011).
Related parts of the anatomy
Structure
The subendothelial layer is a thin layer found between the endothelium and the internal elastic lamina. It is composed mainly of connective tissue with interspersing cells.
Anatomical Relations
The subendothelial layer separates the endothelium from the internal elastic lamina in the wall of the vein.
Function
The subendothelial layer plays a role in releasing chemical mediators, gaseous exchange, and angiogenesis
References
Dorland, W. (2011) Dorland's Illustrated Medical Dictionary. 32nd edn. Philadelphia, USA: Elsevier Saunders.
