autologous CD133+ endothelial progenitor cells

Autologous CD133+ endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are an investigational cell-based therapy developed by Shanghai 10th People's Hospital for the treatment of diabetic foot and peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The therapy involves the enrichment of CD133+ cells from a patient's own peripheral blood mononuclear cells using magnetic-activated cell sorting. These immature progenitor cells possess high proliferative and vasculogenic capacity. When administered via transcatheter arterial infusion into the popliteal artery, the cells promote angiogenesis and the reconstruction of microvascular blood supply. This regenerative effect is mediated through direct integration into damaged vascular endothelium and paracrine signaling, including the secretion of pro-angiogenic factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and interleukin-8 (IL-8). Clinical studies, including trial NCT02474381, have demonstrated significant improvements in ulcer healing and limb salvage in patients with infrapopliteal arterial obstructive disease.

Other names

autologous CD133+ cellsautologous endothelial progenitor cellsEPCs