The functional expression of TLR3 in EPCs impairs cell proliferation by induction of cell apoptosis and cell cycle progress inhibition

► EPCs express functional TLR3. ► The activation of TLR3 by Poly I:C impairs cell proliferation. ► The inhibition of EPC proliferation is related to the cell cycle progress inhibition and cell apoptosis. ► Poly I:C-induced IL-1β is involved in the inhibition of EPC proliferation.