Endothelial glycocalyx is a hairy-like structure covered the endothelial cell surface,which consists of multiple functional elements.It has been proved that glycocalyx can regulate vascular permeability,mediate shear-induced release of NO by endothelial cells,and exert wide array of vasculoprotective effects via inhibition of coagulation and leucocyte adhesion.Degradation of glycocalyx may be associated with many cardiovascular diseases.In this review,the relationship between the endothelial glycocalyx and cardiovascular disease will be discussed.