EndoMac progenitors possess unique characteristics that set them apart from other cell types and make them promising candidates for therapeutic applications. Here are the key features of these newly discovered cells:

• Located in the outer layer of aortas in adult mice1

• Capable of transforming into both endothelial cells (forming blood vessels) and macrophages (immune cells for tissue repair)1

• Activated by injury or poor blood flow, rapidly expanding to aid in healing1

• Do not express typical "self" markers, potentially making them ideal for stem cell transplantation1

• Can be isolated, grown, and observed forming colonies in laboratory settings1

• Demonstrate remarkable improvements in healing diabetic wounds when transplanted1

• Hypothesized to exist in human tissue, with ongoing research to confirm their presence2

• May represent a paradigm shift in understanding how new macrophages are introduced into adult tissues2

These characteristics suggest that EndoMac progenitors could play a crucial role in developing new treatments for conditions where tissue repair is impaired, such as diabetes or chronic wounds.

The discovery of EndoMac progenitors represents a significant milestone in cellular biology, fulfilling a century-old prediction. Scientists had theorized the existence of such cells for over 100 years, but they remained elusive until now1. This breakthrough challenges long-held beliefs about macrophage production in adult mammals, suggesting that these progenitor cells, rather than bone marrow-derived stem cells, may be responsible for introducing new macrophages into adult tissues1. The nine-year research journey leading to this discovery, led by Professor Peter Psaltis and published in Nature Communications, not only validates historical hypotheses but also opens new avenues for understanding tissue repair and regeneration mechanisms2.

The research on EndoMac progenitors has yielded promising results in laboratory studies and animal models. When transplanted into diabetic mouse wounds, these cells demonstrated a remarkable ability to improve healing within days1. The research team isolated EndoMac progenitors from mice, cultured them in the lab, and observed their colony-forming capabilities2. These colonies were then tested in diabetic mouse models, showing significant improvements in wound healing that would typically be impaired.

Key findings include:

• EndoMac progenitors rapidly expand to aid in healing when activated by injury or poor blood flow1

• The cells can form both endothelial cells and macrophages, crucial for blood vessel formation and tissue repair12

• They lack typical "self" markers, potentially reducing the risk of immune rejection in transplantation1

• When injected into the bloodstream of mice with restricted blood circulation, EndoMac progenitors transformed into macrophages and endothelial cells, accelerating leg injury healing2

These findings suggest that EndoMac progenitors could play a crucial role in developing new treatments for conditions where tissue repair is impaired, particularly in cases of chronic wounds or diabetes-related complications.

The discovery of EndoMac progenitors opens up exciting avenues for future research in regenerative medicine and tissue repair. Scientists at SAHMRI are currently expanding their investigations to include similar studies on skin and muscle cells, with results expected within the next 12 months1. This broader exploration could potentially uncover similar progenitor cells in other tissues, further enhancing our understanding of the body's regenerative capabilities.

A crucial next step is the search for EndoMac-like cells in human tissue, which has already shown promising indications2. If successful, this could lead to groundbreaking therapeutic applications, particularly for patients suffering from chronic wounds or diabetes-related complications. The unique properties of these cells, such as their ability to avoid immune system attacks, make them ideal candidates for stem cell transplantation therapies12. As Dr. Liyanage notes, "This represents a significant advancement in our understanding of blood vessel regeneration and holds promise for creating more effective treatments that support the body's capacity to heal and maintain function over time."1