Endothelial Progenitor Cells

Introduction to Endothelial Progenitor Cells

Endothelial Progenitor Cell (EPC) plays an important role in the process of both angiogenesis and vasculogenesis. Compared to specific mature types of endothelial cells such as HMVEC and HUVEC, EPCs are more suitable for cell-based screening of anti-cancer drugs. In addition, EPC have impact on aging, suggesting potential uses of EPC in these areas. BioChain's EPC is a primitive cell type in the endothelial lineage. They are bone marrow derived cells with properties similar to those of embryonic angioblasts. These progenitor cells migrate into the blood stream and are able to differentiate into a variety of mature vascular endothelial cell types.

Features

Primary cells

CD 133+ resuspension cells

Progenitor cells, not terminally differentiated mature endothelial cells such as HUVEC and HMVEC

Capable of differentiating into specific subtypes of endothelial cells, change to CD 133- when attached to the cell culture vessel

Gene expression pattern similar to that of endothelial cells from tumors

Specifically migrate to tumors

Quantity and functions in the blood is altered during pathogenesis of a variety of diseases

Applications

EPC is a unique primitive cell type and is involved in a variety of human diseases. Isolated EPC cells can be used in research and drug discovery in the following areas:

Cancers such as lymphoma, breast cancer, lung cancer and inoperable heptocellular carcinoma (HCC)

Vascular diseases such as coronary artery disease (CAD) and acute myocardial infarction

Diabetes Mellitus

Ischemia

Pulmonary hypertension

Cerebral vascular disease

Arthritis

Cutaneous wound healing and skin regeneration