“…Clearly, this method can be used for endovascular seeding of other cell types, such as EPCs. The rationale behind using MSCs in our study stems from robust data indicating that seeding of a sufficient number of MSCs on vascular grafts, 5,17 acellular bioprosthetic valves, 18 or injured vascular segments 6,7,19 leads to improved endothelialization and decreased neointimal formation, not necessarily by direct MSC endothelial differentiation, but likely via paracrine mechanisms. 19 To this point, MSCs secrete vascular endothelial growth factor, insulin-like growth factor, and hematopoietic growth factor, 20 stimulate endogenous angiogenesis, and have a positive effect on the endothelium.…”