Endothelial progenitor cells accelerate the resolution of deep vein thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) causes high morbidity and mortality. Successful resolution of DVT-related thrombi is the key point in the treatment of DVT. Recently, endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) which are multipotent progenitor cells mainly residing in human bone marrow have emerged as a promising therapeutic choice for DVT-related thrombus resolution. In this review, we discussed the mobilization and homing property of EPCs into the sites of thrombosis, mechanisms of EPCs in DVT-related thrombus resolution from the aspects of promoting endothelial regeneration, revascularization, vasoactive and angiogenic factor secretion, proteinase generation, thrombus propagation and recurrence prevention, and vein wall remodeling. In addition, we also provide suggestions on EPCs as a therapeutic choice for thrombus resolution. (C) 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.