Angiogenesis is critical for many physiological processes including organ development and tissue repair [1]. In human ovaries, angiogenesis is known to be associated with the development of follicles and the formation of the corpus luteum. A complex vascular network is formed within the thecal cell layer during follicular growth, and rapid neovascularization occurs toward the granulosa cell layer after ovulation [2]. Endothelial cells from different organs, as well as from large and small vessels of the same organ, have specialized properties [3]. The endothelial cells prepared from the specific microvasculature of the ovarian follicle are an ideal in vitro model for the study of the angiogenesis and physiology of the female reproductive system.

HOMEC from ScienCell Research Laboratories are isolated from human ovary. HOMEC are cryopreserved at passage one and delivered frozen. Each vial contains >5 x 10^5 cells in 1 ml volume. HOMEC are characterized by immunofluorescence with antibodies specific to vWF/Factor VIII and CD31 (PECAM), and by uptake of DiI-Ac-LDL. HOMEC are negative for HIV-1, HBV, HCV, mycoplasma, bacteria, yeast, and fungi. HOMEC 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 HOMEC in vitro.