[Stem cells in human amniotic fluid].

Amniotic fluid (AF) contains a heterogeneous population of cells of fetal origin in which stem cells are present. These cells are characterized by their expression of mesenchymal (CD73, CD90, CD105) and neural (Nestin, @[beta]3-tubulin, NEFH) markers, and also some pluripotent markers (Oct4, Nanog), and they are capable of differentiating into diverse derivatives in vitro. We have shown that epithelial markers are observed in AF stem cells at the same time with mesenchymal (Keratin 19, Keratin 18, and p63). During cloning, colonies of cells with fibroblastlike and epithelial-like morphologies are formed. The status and differentiation potential of stem cells from AF have been discussed.