Concise Review: The Plasticity of Stem Cell Niches: A General Property Behind Tissue Homeostasis 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.