Do endothelial progenitor cells possess monocyte-like antigen-presenting and T-cell-co-stimulatory capacity?
Although EPC exhibit endothelial-like surface markers, functional characteristics place these cells in a monocytic lineage. EPC also display antigen-presenting capacity similar to monocytes and much stronger than human vascular EC. Significant T-cell-activating potential will have to be expected from EPC when potentially used therapeutically, especially in allogenic transplant settings.
The present findings reveal a potent stimulus of acute exercise to reverse CAC dysfunction in CHF patients with endothelial dysfunction.