Fenestra (histology)

For other uses, see Fenestra (disambiguation).

Scanning electron micrograph of a liver sinusoid with fenestrated endothelial cells. Fenestræ are approximately 100 nm in diameter, with a sinusoidal width of 5 micrometres. Magnification 30,000X

In histology, fenestræ are small pores in endothelial cells that allow for rapid exchange of molecules between fenestrated blood vessels, sinusoid blood vessels and surrounding tissue. These pores may enlarge and contract at the action of various stimuli such as the hormone noradrenaline. Fenestræ (singular: fenestra) is a Latin word that means "windows".

Depiction of the major types of capillaries, showing fenestrations as well as intercellular gaps.

See also

• Sinusoid (blood vessel)
• Liver sinusoid