[Human amniotic epithelium (HAE) as a possible source of stem cells (SC)]

Gac Med Mex. 2015 Jan-Feb;151(1):66-74.
[Article in Spanish]

Abstract

There have been major recent advances in the field of developmental biology due to the investigation on stem cells (SC). Stem cells are characterized by their capacity of auto-renewal and differentiation to different cellular phenotypes. Based on the developmental stage, they can be classified into two different types: embryonic SCs and adult SCs. It has been widely reported that several problems need to be resolved before their possible clinical applications. As a result, fetal membranes have been suggested as an alternative source of SCs. In the human amniotic epithelium, the presence of markers of pluripotent SC´s has been reported, and its capacity as a feeder layer for expansion of different SC types. Also, fetal membranes are a discarded product after delivery, and thus there are not any ethical issues related to its use. In conclusion, the human amniotic epithelium can be a strong candidate for regenerative medicine.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Amnion / cytology*
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Epithelial Cells / cytology*
  • Extraembryonic Membranes / cytology
  • Humans
  • Regenerative Medicine / methods
  • Stem Cells / cytology*