Human Tonsil Endothelial Cells

The tonsils are part of the lymphatic system and are located in the pharynx. The tonsils are the immune system’s first defense against foreign pathogens and help to prevent respiratory and gastrointestinal infections. Tonsil endothelial cells (TEC) line the blood vessels and actively participate in fluid balance, cellular transport, and also immunity. TEC also perform specialized functions for the tonsils including recruiting lymphocytes from the blood. Studies have shown that TEC express proteins that aid in lymphocyte adhesion and extravasation. Morphological and physiological changes in human TEC (HTEC) can lead to the development of tonsillitis. Human Tonsil Endothelial Cells are a useful model for studying inflammation in the tonsils. They are also useful tools to stablish in vitro disease models for High Throughput and High Content Screening.