Endothelial inflammation refers to the activation and dysfunction of vascular endothelial cells in response to harmful stimuli (e.g., oxidized lipids, cytokines, infectious agents, or mechanical stress), leading to:

Increased expression of adhesion molecules (e.g., VCAM-1, ICAM-1, E-selectin)

Leukocyte recruitment and infiltration into the vascular wall

Proinflammatory cytokine and chemokine release

Loss of endothelial barrier function

Pro-thrombotic and pro-oxidative state

This process is a key early event in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, promoting the transition from a healthy vascular endothelium to a chronically inflamed, dysfunctional surface that facilitates plaque development and progression.