Circulating stem cells and cardiovascular outcomes: from basic science to the clinic.

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Hematology
• Stem Cell Research

Background:

• The cardiovascular and hematopoietic systems exhibit fundamental interrelationships throughout development and in adult health and disease.
• Circulating stem cells (CSCs), primarily bone marrow-derived hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and hematopoietic stem/progenitors (HSPCs), along with endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), are key indicators of regenerative capacity, particularly for the cardiovascular system.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the biology of CSCs and their clinical implications.
• To discuss the association between CSC levels and cardiovascular outcomes.
• To explore potential mechanisms linking CSCs to cardiovascular health.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of research on CSCs.
• Analysis of evidence linking CSC levels to cardiovascular risk factors and established cardiovascular disease.
• Discussion of potential mechanisms underlying the observed associations.

Main Results:

• Mounting evidence indicates a strong association between reduced CSC levels and adverse cardiovascular outcomes across various patient cohorts.
• CSCs play a role in cardiovascular repair.
• Changes in CSC levels must be interpreted within the broader context of hematopoiesis and cardiovascular function.

Conclusions:

• Reduced levels of circulating stem cells are linked to poor cardiovascular outcomes.
• Understanding the interplay between hematopoiesis and cardiovascular function is crucial for interpreting CSC levels.
• Further research into mechanisms like clonal hematopoiesis and inflammatory myelopoiesis is warranted.