Coexistence of Quiescent and Active Adult Stem Cells in Mammals

    January 2010 in “ Science
    Linheng Li, Hans Clevers
    TLDR Active and quiescent stem cells work together in mammals to maintain and repair tissues.
    The study from 2010 challenged the prevailing model of a single quiescent stem cell population by demonstrating the coexistence of quiescent and active adult stem cells in mammals. It found that in tissues like hair follicles, gut, and bone marrow, these subpopulations played distinct but cooperative roles. In hair follicles, active stem cells in the hair germ were crucial for hair growth during the anagen phase, while quiescent stem cells in the bulge served as a reserve. In the gut, active Lgr5+ stem cells were found among Paneth cells, and in bone marrow, active hematopoietic stem cells supported daily blood cell production. The study proposed a "zoned" model where active stem cells managed regular tissue replenishment, and quiescent stem cells acted as a backup, activated under specific conditions like injury. This arrangement was suggested to enhance the longevity and output of stem cell pools while minimizing tumorigenic risks, providing a robust mechanism for tissue regeneration and maintenance.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Research cited in this study

    1 / 1 results

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 7 results

    Similar Research

    5 / 1000+ results