The progress review: the relationship between aging and endothelial progenitor cells dysfunction

Endothelial progenitor cells are precursors of endothelial cells, mainly derives from the bone marrow.A variety of physiological and pathological factors can mobilize them into the peripheral blood, to repair the damaged tissue and to participate in angiogenesis.The ageing individuals who suffered from endothelial dysfunction are sensitive to endothelial damages.The reduced endothelial progenitor cells and the decreased secret function will hinder angiogenesis in elderly patients.In this article, we reviewed the relationship between aging and endothelial progenitor cells dysfunction, and looked into the therapy prospect in using endothelial progenitor cells in ischemic diseases. Key words: Endotheliar progenitor cells; Aging; Oxidative stress; Nitric oxide; Estrongens