Epicardium as a new target for regenerative technologies in cardiology

Abstract

Epicardium is actively involved in the embryonic heart development and its repair after injury, which allows it to be considered as a potential target for the treatment of heart diseases. In this regard, the study of the mechanisms of its development, the components of the microenvironment, as well as the signals regulating the behavior of epicardial progenitor cells, is the most important area of modern cardiology. This review considers the results of recent studies of homeostasis of epicardial cells and technological advances to modulate their activity, which is essential for the development of new therapeutic agents.