TLDR Stem cell niches are adaptable and key for tissue maintenance and repair.
The document reviewed the adaptive response of stem cell niches to systemic signals, aging, and local perturbations, emphasizing their role in tissue homeostasis and repair. It discussed the components of niches, such as support cells and the extracellular matrix, and their interaction with stem cells to regulate behavior, as well as the impact of aging on niche activity. The review suggested that manipulating stem cells and their microenvironments could rejuvenate aged stem cells and enhance regenerative therapies. It also highlighted the importance of dormant stem cells in tissue regeneration and the adaptability of stem cell niches to environmental changes, such as dietary fluctuations in Drosophila. The document concluded that the plasticity of stem cell niches is crucial for integrating systemic and local signals to maintain tissue homeostasis, but many questions about stem cell behavior and niche response to damage remain unanswered. The work was supported by Spanish research funding bodies and declared no competing financial interests.
29 citations,
March 2012 in “Stem Cell Research & Therapy” Some stem cells in the body rarely divide, which could help create better treatments for diseases and aging.
163 citations,
March 2012 in “BMC biology” Stem cell niches support, regulate, and coordinate stem cell functions.
721 citations,
October 2011 in “Nature” Different types of long-lasting stem cells are responsible for the growth and upkeep of the mammary gland.
176 citations,
April 2011 in “Science” Hair stem cell regeneration is controlled by signals that can explain different hair growth patterns and baldness.
326 citations,
February 2009 in “The American journal of pathology” Lgr5 is a marker for active, self-renewing stem cells in the intestine and skin, important for tissue maintenance.
480 citations,
August 2014 in “Nature Biotechnology” Changing the environment around stem cells could help tissue repair, but it's hard to be precise and avoid side effects.
205 citations,
August 2007 in “Experimental Cell Research” Stem cell niches are crucial for regulating stem cell renewal and differentiation, and understanding them can help in developing regenerative therapies.
June 2023 in “Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology” The conclusion is that accurately replicating the complexity of the extracellular matrix in the lab is crucial for creating realistic human tissue models.
4 citations,
July 2022 in “Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology” The document concludes that understanding adult stem cells and their environments can help improve skin regeneration in the future.
September 2023 in “Nature communications” Alk1 in specific cells is crucial for proper nerve branching and hair function.
September 2013 in “Experimental Dermatology” The document concluded that stem cells are crucial for skin repair, regeneration, and may help in developing advanced skin substitutes.
