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Transplanted human bone marrow contributes to vascular endothelium.
Shuguang Jiang1, Luke Walker, Michael Afentoulis
1Center for Hematologic Malignancies, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Cancer Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA.
Summary
Bone marrow is a source of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) that can form new blood vessels. These cells are closely linked to the recovery of hematopoiesis, suggesting therapeutic potential for vascular diseases.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Vascular Biology
- Stem Cell Research
Background:
- Bone marrow is recognized as a source of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs).
- Previous studies demonstrated that functional endothelial cells (ECs) can arise from hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the endothelial cell (EC) potential of human bone marrow and peripheral blood stem cells.
- To evaluate the origin of endothelial cells in sex-mismatched transplant recipients.
Main Methods:
- Utilized immunohistochemistry and XY interphase FISH to identify donor-derived ECs in transplant recipients.
- Analyzed blood vessels in sex-mismatched transplant recipients to assess EC outcomes.
- Distinguished donor-derived ECs from CD45-expressing hematopoietic stem cells.
Main Results:
- Donor-derived ECs were detected in the skin and gut of transplant recipients at a mean frequency of 2%.
- No evidence of cell fusion was observed, as ECs did not possess more than two sex chromosomes.
- Donor-derived ECs were absent before hematopoietic engraftment, indicating a link between hematopoiesis recovery and EC development.
Conclusions:
- Bone marrow stem cells possess endothelial progenitor cell potential.
- The recovery of hematopoiesis is closely associated with endothelial cell outcomes.
- Bone marrow-derived EPCs represent potential therapeutic targets for hematopoietic and vascular diseases.