Amnion Epithelial Cells — a Therapeutic Source

Purpose of Review: In this review, we will explore the clinical and commercial focus on amniotic membranes (AMs) and their use in tissue engineering (TE). We will showcase the therapeutic potential of AM-isolated epithelial cells (hAECs) and the prospective use of their secreted factors, extracellular vesicles (EVs), in cell and non-cell therapies. Recent Findings: The potential of the hAECs as a therapeutic source has been investigated in various preclinical models with some progressing into phase I clinical trials to evaluate their safety. Additionally, multiple animal studies showcase the therapeutic potential of EVs as non-cellular treatments. Summary: The amniotic membrane (AM) has been used as a form of regenerative medicine in wound healing for burns and ulcerated surfaces and in ophthalmology for over a century. In the last few decades, research has looked to the use of the various stem cells that can be isolated from the AM. The use of AM-isolated hAECs has proven rather promising with phase I clinical trials currently underway across life-threatening diseases in both pediatric and adult populations. However, due to limitations of using cell-based therapies (e.g., cost of production, delivery restricted to major hospitals, etc.), attention has turned to investigating EVs secreted by the cells.