Human Umbilical cord-derived endothelial cells have been a major source of primary endothelial cells isolated from the veins of umbilical cord. Due to ease of availability and isolation, they have quickly become the preferred choice for cell culture. They are highly proliferative and can have migrative properties. They form the endothelium, which refers to a thin lining of cells in the inner surface of blood vessels. Endothelial cells are responsible for a variety of functions in body including blood clotting, inflammation, and wound healing and organ development. Endothelial dysfunction has been attributed as the hallmark of various vascular diseases and also an early sign of atherosclerosis. Having a better understanding of the involved growth factors can have implications in treatment of various diseases. Here we enlist some applications that are worth exploring.
Angiogenesis Research In Human Umbilical Cord-Derived Endothelial Cells:
The process of Angiogenesis is crucial for growth starting from embryonic development. Depending on the disease pathology, increasing or decreasing angiogenesis may be crucial to prevent its progression. For instance, enhancing angiogenesis may be necessary for stroke victims while reduction of angiogenesis becomes crucial for anti-cancer therapies. Therefore, a study of the vascular system becomes a crucial area of research. HUVECs provide an optimal in vitro model system for vascular research. They can be useful for a range of applications from oncology to cardiovascular research.
Studying development of neo-angiogenesis and interaction of ECs with surrounding cells can help in a better understanding of vascular biology. Vascular system has complex interactions with the immune system. Due to high proliferative behavior, Human Umbilical Cord-Derived Endothelial Cells HUVECs are very commonly used in migration and invasion assays. During transplant rejections, endothelial dysfunction facilitates the intrusion of immune cells leading to an upregulation of cytokines. Human Umbilical Cord-Derived Endothelial Cells HUVECs can help in study of adhesion molecules such as cadherins and pro-inflammatory cytokines which may reveal insights into disease path physiology and progression.
Recapitulation of the tumor microenvironment has been a challenging aspect of cancer research. Though much of the tumor behavior is still mysterious, it has been well known that blood vessels undergo significant remodeling during tumor progression. Cancer cells require a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients and can form their own blood vessels. To mimic the three-dimensional environment in the tumor niche, the current research is shifting towards the crosstalk between tumor cells and the endothelial cells. Development of spheroids, co-culture systems, and microfluidics has been some latest advancement marking the field. Scientists are applying these strategies to different cancer cell models. The research area can have interesting implications for drug discovery and validation and reveal new molecular targets for cancer therapy.
Tissue engineering is one field that increasingly focuses on mimicking the native nature of tissues in a three-dimensional space. Development of 3D scaffolds with enhanced vascularization for organ substitutes is an upcoming focus. Scientists are achieving this by encapsulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) or co-culture of the cells with endothelial cells on appropriate biocompatible matrix. Since implant failures due to hypoxia are a concern in transplantation studies, these enriched scaffolds can encourage regeneration and positive healing properties.
Kosheeka has specialized protocols for isolation of pure HUVEC cell populations. We provide freshly isolated, low passage numbers and validated cells to ensure best results for our customers. If you are venturing into vascular research, try Kosheeka’s HUVEC cells would be your way to go.