Abstract: Endothelial progenitor cells（EPC）are precursors of vascular endothelial cells （EC），which is mainly derived from the umbilical venous blood，adult peripheral blood and bone marrow．It plays an important part in the formulation of human embryonic vasculogenesis. Moreover, EPC gives consistent support to the growth of the vascular after birth. Pregnancy is a challenge to the maternal vascular system, requiring systemic adaptation and pronounced local adjustment in the uterus. Preeclampsia and gestational diabetes are mostly associated with endothelial dysfunction. This review summarizes our understanding of endothelial progenitor cells, with specific reference to their role in angiogenesis and human pregnancy.

Key words: Endothelial progenitor cell, Pregnancy, Preeclampsia, Gestational diabetes