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Updated: Apr 5, 2026
09:15
Two Methods for Establishing Primary Human Endometrial Stromal Cells from Hysterectomy Specimens
Published on: May 23, 2014
23.8K
Stem Cells in Endometrial Physiology.
Shanti Gurung1, James A Deane1, Hirotaka Masuda2
1The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia.
Seminars in Reproductive Medicine
|August 8, 2015
Summary
Stem cells, including epithelial progenitors, mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs), side population (SP), and label-retaining cells (LRCs), are crucial for human endometrial regeneration and function throughout the menstrual cycle. Identifying markers for endometrial MSCs aids in understanding reproductive health and diseases.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Stem Cell Biology
- Gynecology
Background:
- The human endometrium undergoes cyclical regeneration driven by sex steroid hormones.
- Stem and progenitor cell populations, including epithelial progenitors, mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs), side population (SP) cells, and label-retaining cells (LRCs), have been identified in the endometrium.
- These cells are hypothesized to play a critical role in endometrial repair and function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the identification and characteristics of endometrial stem and progenitor cells.
- To discuss the contribution of these cells to endometrial regeneration, homeostasis, decidualization, and placentation.
- To highlight the potential of these findings for understanding and treating endometrial disorders.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies identifying and characterizing endometrial stem/progenitor cells.
- Analysis of markers and locations of human endometrial MSCs.
- Discussion of the functional roles of these cell populations in the endometrium.
Main Results:
- Rare populations of epithelial progenitors, MSCs, SP cells, and LRCs exist in the endometrium.
- Markers for human endometrial MSCs have been identified, indicating a perivascular location.
- Endometrial MSCs can be purified from biopsy tissue and menstrual blood.
Conclusions:
- Stem and progenitor cells are integral to endometrial regeneration and function.
- Identified MSC markers advance understanding of endometrial physiology and pathology.
- Prospectively isolated endometrial MSCs offer potential for cell-based therapies in reproductive medicine.
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