Markers of Islet Endothelial Dysfunction Occur in Male B6.BKS(D)-Leprdb/J Mice and May Contribute to Reduced Insulin Release.

Islet endothelial cells produce paracrine factors that support β-cell function and growth. Endothelial dysfunction underlies diabetic microvascular complications; thus, we hypothesized that in diabetes, islet endothelial cells become dysfunctional, which may contribute to β-cell secretory dysfunction. Islets/islet endothelial cells were isolated from diabetic B6.