Purification and characterization of human adipose-resident microvascular endothelial progenitor cells

Human adipose tissue is a rich source of adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) and vascular endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). However, no standardized method has been established for the isolation and purification of adipose-derived EPCs (AEPCs). The aim of this study was to establish a method for the isolation and purification of AEPCs. The stromal vascular fraction (SVF) was extracted from human lipoaspirates, and the CD45^-CD31⁺ fraction of the SVF was collected by magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS). The CD45^-CD31⁺ fraction was cultured for 4.5 days, followed by a second MACS separation to collect the CD31⁺ fraction. Purified AEPCs were expanded without being overwhelmed by proliferating ASCs, indicating that a high level (> 95%) of AEPC purification is a key factor for their successful isolation and expansion. AEPCs exhibited typical endothelial markers, including CD31, von Willebrand factor, and the isolectin-B4 binding capacity. AEPCs formed colonies, comparable to cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Both AEPCs and HUVECs formed capillary-like networks in the tube formation assay, with no significant difference in network lengths. We are the first to establish a purification and expansion method to isolate these cells. Because adipose tissue is a clinically accessible and abundant tissue, AEPCs may have potential advantages as a therapeutic tool for regenerative medicine.