Tissue Homeostasis and Regeneration: Human Limitations and Potential

The document from 2008 discusses tissue homeostasis and regeneration, noting that humans have limited regenerative abilities compared to simpler organisms, with certain tissues like the liver and bone capable of regeneration. It challenges previous beliefs that the adult human brain and heart cannot regenerate, presenting evidence of neurogenesis and cardiomyocyte division. The role of stem cell niches in maintaining tissue balance is emphasized, with these niches found in areas such as the intestine, hair follicle, and bone marrow. The document also touches on the potential of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine to enhance autologous tissue regeneration by understanding and replicating the microenvironments of stem cell niches. It suggests that future approaches may involve local implantation of substances or nanoconstructed niches to support natural cell migration and tissue repair.