查看文章

Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are peripheral blood mononuclear cells that can differentiate into mature endothelial cells. Adult EPCs were first discovered in human peripheral blood in 1997. Since then, the potency of EPCs for cardiovascular regeneration has been demonstrated in several preclinical studies; and investigators are beginning to evaluate the therapeutic utility of EPCs in early-phase clinical trials. This review summarizes the progression of basic, preclinical, and clinical research into the potential use of EPC therapy for cardiovascular regeneration.