Heterogeneity of embryonic and adult stem cells

Cell Stem Cell. 2008 Nov 6;3(5):480-3. doi: 10.1016/j.stem.2008.10.007.

Abstract

New studies suggest that stem cells of embryonic, neural, and hematopoietic origin are heterogeneous, with cells moving between two or more metastable states. These cell states show a bias in their differentiation potential and correlate with specific patterns of transcription factor expression and chromatin modifications.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult Stem Cells / cytology
  • Adult Stem Cells / metabolism*
  • Animals
  • Cell Differentiation / genetics
  • Cell Lineage*
  • Chromosomal Proteins, Non-Histone
  • Embryonic Stem Cells / cytology
  • Embryonic Stem Cells / metabolism*
  • Epigenesis, Genetic / physiology*
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental*
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cells / cytology
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cells / metabolism*
  • Homeodomain Proteins / genetics
  • Homeodomain Proteins / metabolism
  • Homeostasis
  • Humans
  • MAP Kinase Signaling System / genetics
  • Nanog Homeobox Protein
  • Paracrine Communication / physiology
  • Proteins / genetics
  • Proteins / metabolism
  • Stem Cell Niche / cytology
  • Stem Cell Niche / metabolism

Substances

  • Chromosomal Proteins, Non-Histone
  • DPPA3 protein, human
  • Homeodomain Proteins
  • NANOG protein, human
  • Nanog Homeobox Protein
  • Proteins