J Appl Biomed 14:1-17, 2016 | DOI: 10.1016/j.jab.2015.10.004

The relationship between amniotic epithelial cells and their microenvironment

Katarzyna Kopaczka^a, Katarzyna Skowron^b, Emanuel Kolanko^b, Piotr Czekaj^a,*

^a Department of Cytophysiology, Chair of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Medyków 18, 40-758 Katowice, Poland

^b Students Scientific Society, School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Medyków 18, 40-758 Katowice, Poland

Human amniotic epithelial cells (hAEC) are characterized by a great ability to differentiate, and immunomodulatory properties toward mother's immune system cells. These features have been described as being able to change during pregnancy. Thanks to their unique properties: low immunogenicity and high effectiveness of transplantations, amniotic epithelial cells constitute a very attractive source of stem cells for practical purposes in regenerative medicine and transplantology. In this review, we focus on natural factors potentially determining hAEC immunophenotype during pregnancy. Recognition of the impact of specific factors on hAEC would help in effective isolation, creation of appropriate culture conditions and regulation of desired cell function. We also indicate immunomodulatory properties of hAEC themselves. Discovering relations of hAEC with the microenvironment seems to be crucial for their clinical application.

Keywords: Amnion; Extracellular matrix; Human amnion epithelial cells; Human amnion mesenchymal stromal cells; Immunomodulation; Stem cells

Received: June 24, 2015; Revised: October 8, 2015; Accepted: October 12, 2015; Published: February 1, 2016  Show citation