research Stem Cell Heterogeneity and Plasticity in Epithelia
Different types of stem cells exist within individual skin layers, and they can adapt to damage, transplantation, or tumor growth. These cells are regulated by their environment and genetic factors. Tumor growth is driven by expanding, genetically altered cells, not long-lived mutant stem cells. There's evidence of cancer stem cells in skin tumors. Other cells, bacteria, and genetic factors help maintain balance and contribute to disease progression. A method for growing mini organs from single cells has been developed.