endometrial regenerative cells

Endometrial regenerative cells (ERCs) are a population of allogeneic, menstrual blood-derived mesenchymal stem cell-like cells characterized by high proliferative capacity and potent pro-angiogenic and immunomodulatory properties. Developed by Medistem (later acquired by Intrexon, now Precigen), ERCs are considered "universal donor" cells because they lack significant expression of MHC Class II antigens, potentially allowing for administration without immunosuppression. The lead clinical program investigated ERCs for the treatment of critical limb ischemia (CLI) via intramuscular injection to promote revascularization. Beyond CLI, ERCs have been studied in clinical and preclinical models for congestive heart failure, multiple sclerosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), leveraging their ability to secrete high levels of cytokines such as VEGF, HGF, and IL-10 to facilitate tissue repair and reduce inflammation.

Other names

menstrual blood-derived stem cellsmenstrual-derived mesenchymal stem cellsmenstrual-derived MSCsMenSC