Multiple confusing names for endothelial progenitors

What is it about?

A consortium of 13 laboratories across 11 universities in 7 countries to agree on nomenclature for various cell types called endothelial progenitors.

Featured Image

Why is it important?

Various different cell types have been all named EPCs. Therefore, EPC terminology is too vague as it acts as an umbrella term for distinct cell subtypes. Here, leaders on the EPC field encourage scientist to standardise a more accurate terminology for cells isolated in culture by using their lineage such as endothelial colony forming cells (ECFCs) and myeloid angiogenic cells (MACs).

Perspectives

“

Standardization of nomenclature is critical for experimental reproducibility. Endothelial progenitor cell biology has suffered from the use of vague terminology. This paper highlights the need for scientists to use same accurate terminology.

”