Aims: In this study, we aimed to evaluate whether human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells(AMMs) have angio-vasculogenic properties and to determine their therapeutic effects on experimental ischemia. Although AMMs are a promising source of stem cells, their angio-vasculogenic properties are not fully understood. Materials and results: We have characterized AMMs by qRT-PCR, Matrigel tube formation assays, and various in vitro endothelial differentition assays. AMMs expressed significantly higher levels of representative proangiogenic genes, VEGF-A, Ang-1, HGF, and FGF-2 than human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMs). In addition, the anti-apoptic factor Akt-1 was highly expressed in the AMMs. Cells were directly transplanted into the ischemic hind limbs of mice to evaluate their angio-vasculogenic and therapeutic effects. They spontaneously differentiate into vascula-like structures and exhibit endothelial specific genes and proteins. In an in vivo study on hind limb ischemia, AMMs implantation augmented blood perfusion and capilary density, indicating AMM-augmented neovascularization. The engrafment rate of AMMs was high, and the transplanted AMMs showed vasculogenic potential.Conclusion: In conclusion, AMMs are not only markedly angiogenic but also vasculogenic,thus ameliorating hind ischemica. Our data suggest that AMMs have considerable therapeutic effects on ischemic hind limb through high angiogenic and engraftment abilities.
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