Certain infectious diseases caused by viruses, bacteria and parasites have been shown to be associated with functional and structural alterations of the cardiovascular system particularly involving the endothelium. The endothelium provides the critical barrier between the intra vascular and the extra vascular tissue and thus occupies a strategically important location for
 pathogen adherence, spread and replication. However, the critical role of endothelial cells in infectious diseases is not restricted to direct infections, but can also involve cardiovascular dysregulations (coagulation/anticoagulation balance, blood pressure, fluid and solute exchange) in response to products released a) from pathogens (exo- and endotoxins) or b) from immune cells of the host (cyto- and chemokines) during infection.

While in the past, molecular mechanisms have been identified for certain pathogens in interaction with host cells, the respective cause-consequence relation of endothelial infections are largely unknown.

Since 2002 funding of a 'Priority program' entitled 'Infection of endothelium' by the German research council (DFG) has responded to investigative needs in this field. The funded projects address the molecular mechanisms of direct and indirect interaction of viruses, bacteria and parasites with endothelial cells as well as the consequences of these interactions and some therapeutic approaches*. The funded >projects< address critical topics in this under investigated field.


*A more extended overview and further details on infection of the endothelium can be found in a Theme Issue of Thrombosis and Haemostasis 2005 (Thromb Haemost 2005;94 238-361).