The Localization of Label-Retaining Cells in Eccrine Glands

The study investigated the localization of label-retaining cells, which are indicative of stem cells, in mouse and human eccrine glands. Using BrdU pulse-chase experiments, researchers found that these cells were present in the secretory gland and coiled duct of eccrine glands, but not in the straight or intraepidermal ducts. In human skin transplanted onto mice, label-retaining cells expressed keratin 15, a marker for stem cells, in the secretory segment. The distribution of these cells was scattered, similar to patterns seen in mammary glands. This suggested that stem cells in eccrine glands could potentially be used in regenerative medicine. The study involved five newborn BALB/c Cr Slc mice and human skin from five patients.