ABSTRACT
The placenta represents an interesting source of cells with an intriguing potential, by virtue of the tissue properties acquired during embryological development and maintained during the perinatal period. Cells isolated from Wharton’s jelly display characteristics very similar to mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) obtained from classic adult sources such as bone marrow. The amniotic membrane hosts cell populations that show pluripotent properties, reflecting the embryological origin of this tissue and providing a rationale for the clinical application of these cells. Amnion is a thin, semitransparent, semipermeable and avascular membrane attached to the chorionic membrane, and it covers the entire chorionic plate, continuing over the umbilical cord with the fetal skin. Human amniotic epithelial and MSCs have been used as a cellular treatment for lung and liver fibrosis. Cells from the epithelial and mesenchymal layers of amniotic membrane can be easily isolated with a combination of enzymatic and mechanical treatments of the tissue.
