Description
Angiogenesis is critical for many physiological processes including organ development, tissue repair, and the female reproductive tract. Human endometrial microvascular endothelial cells (HEMEC) are located in the inner mucous membrane of the uterus known as the endometrium. HEMEC are involved in endometrial angiogenesis during the menstrual cycle with the rapid growth and shedding of the endometrium. Angiogenesis in the endometrium occurs through the non-sprouting mechanisms intussusception and vessel elongation. Studies have indicated that elevated HEMEC proliferation in the endometrium can lead to disorders such as endometriosis and menorrhagia. Cultured HEMEC are a useful model to elucidate the mechanisms of normal and pathological angiogenesis and develop treatments for female reproductive tract disorders. HEMEC from ScienCell Research Laboratories are isolated from human uterus. HEMEC are cryopreserved at passage one and delivered frozen. Each vial contains >5 x 10^5 cells in 1 ml volume. HEMEC are characterized by immunofluorescence with antibodies specific to vWF/Factor VIII and CD31 (PECAM), and by uptake of DiI-Ac-LDL. HEMEC are negative for HIV-1, HBV, HCV, mycoplasma, bacteria, yeast, and fungi. HEMEC are guaranteed to further expand for 10 population doublings under the conditions provided by ScienCell Research Laboratories. Recommended Medium: It is recommended to use Endothelial Cell Medium (ECM, Cat. #1001) for culturing HEMEC in vitro