Human Vaginal Epithelial Cells

Description

Human vaginal epithelial cells are isolated from human vaginal mucosal tissue, typically sourced from healthy female donors, representing the stratified squamous epithelium that lines the vaginal canal. They play a key role in defending against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). These cells exhibit a stratified squamous epithelium morphology, forming layered sheets, and express specific proteins on basal and suprabasal surfaces. They secrete mucus glycoproteins, contributing to enzymatic defense, and display microfolds, microridges, and cell-cell adhesion structures. These cells are involved in immune responses, producing cytokines and chemokines through Toll-like receptor signaling. These cells are widely used to study vaginal microbiota interactions, sexually transmitted infections, hormonal regulation, and epithelial wound healing. Their gene expression profile includes innate immune genes (e.g., TLRs, defensins) and hormone receptors, reflecting their physiological role in mucosal immunity and tissue homeostasis.