FIG. 3.

EPC mobilization from bone marrow and importance of NO for EPC biology. Several substances can contribute through an increase in NO bioavailability to improved number and function of circulating EPC. This increase in NO leads to enhanced MMP-9 activity and subsequent c-kit ligand slicing in bone marrow that results in increased EPC release. The increase of intracellular levels of NO in EPC, may change the cytoskeleton and gene transcription, leading to enhanced migratory capacity and functional improvement. MMP-9, matrix metalloproteinase-9; VASP, vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein; VEGF, vascular endothelial growth factor.