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World J Stem Cells. Jul 26, 2014; 6(3): 355-366
Published online Jul 26, 2014. doi: 10.4252/wjsc.v6.i3.355
Endothelial progenitor cells in cardiovascular diseases
Poay Sian Sabrina Lee, Kian Keong Poh
Poay Sian Sabrina Lee, Kian Keong Poh, Cardiac Department, National University Heart Centre, National University Health System, Singapore and Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore
Author contributions: Lee PSS and Poh KK contributed to this paper.
Supported by The National Medical Research Council, Singapore, No. NMRC/NIG/1038/2010; and the National University Health System Clinician Scientist Program (NCSP) from the Clinician Scientist Unit, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore
Correspondence to: Kian Keong Poh, MBBChir, FRCP, Professor, Cardiac Department, National University Heart Centre, National University Health System, Singapore and Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 1E Kent Ridge Road, NUHS Tower Block, Level 9, Singapore 119228, Singapore. kian_keong_poh@nuhs.edu.sg
Telephone: +65-92373289 Fax: +65-68722998
Received: November 6, 2013
Revised: March 26, 2014
Accepted: April 3, 2014
Published online: July 26, 2014
Processing time: 255 Days and 4.9 Hours
Abstract

Endothelial dysfunction has been associated with the development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. Adult endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are derived from hematopoietic stem cells and are capable of forming new blood vessels through a process of vasculogenesis. There are studies which report correlations between circulating EPCs and cardiovascular risk factors. There are also studies on how pharmacotherapies may influence levels of circulating EPCs. In this review, we discuss the potential role of endothelial progenitor cells as both diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. In addition, we look at the interaction between cardiovascular pharmacotherapies and endothelial progenitor cells. We also discuss how EPCs can be used directly and indirectly as a therapeutic agent. Finally, we evaluate the challenges facing EPC research and how these may be overcome.

Keywords: Endothelial progenitor cells; Cardiovascular diseases; Hypertension; Diabetes; Dyslipidemia; Therapy; Stents

Core tip: Our review summarizes the important associations between endothelial progenitor cells, cardiovascular risks, drugs and diseases. Current pharmacotherapies may enhance endothelial progenitor cell numbers and function. These and the evolving endothelial progenitor cell-based therapies may be important in the future treatment of cardiovascular diseases.