Biochemistry of Epidermal Stem Cells

The 2013 review examined the biochemistry of epidermal stem cells, which are vital for skin maintenance and repair. It covered the identification of stem cell markers, the understanding of their niche locations, and their role in normal skin function and cancer. The review concluded that the epidermis contains multiple stem cell populations, each responsible for different structures, and that these cells are key to repairing damaged skin. It also discussed the potential of these cells in treating skin diseases and cancer, and the importance of signaling pathways and microRNAs in stem cell regulation. Specific markers for human and mouse hair follicle stem cells were identified, such as CD200 and keratin 15, and the role of Lgr6+ cells in the sebaceous gland was noted. The paper suggested that mutations in stem cells could lead to skin cancer and highlighted the role of miRNAs like miR-203 in keratinocyte differentiation and skin stem cell regulation. The research emphasized the progress made in understanding stem cell behavior through mouse models and its implications for treating stem cell-related conditions.