The number of circulating endothelial cells is not increased in systemic sclerosis and related disorders: assessment of the pathogenetic role played by cxcr4(pos) progenitor cells coexpressing monocytic and endothelial markers

摘要

There are ongoing controversies regarding the role of circulating endothelial mature and progenitor cells (CECs/CEPs) in the pathogenesis of the systemic sclerosis (SSc). Circulating hematopoietic and/or endothelial progenitor cells, possibly implicated in the pathogenesis of SSc, were characterized and enumerated by a multiparametric 4-color flow cytometric protocol, in combination with different progenitor cell replating assays, in peripheral blood specimens obtained from 40 patients with SSc, various autoimmune diseases, and controls. Data were compared with patient’s clinical features and serum levels of angiogenic factors.