Effects of fatty acids and cholesterol on functions and behavior of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells

Blanca Gonzalez-Garcia; Miriam Plaza; Maria Fresco; Cristina Aparicio; Rocio Abia; Francisco J G Muriana; Sara M Jaramillo-Carmona

doi:10.1016/j.isci.2026.114813

Effects of fatty acids and cholesterol on functions and behavior of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells

iScience. 2026 Feb 10;29(3):114813. doi: 10.1016/j.isci.2026.114813. eCollection 2026 Mar 20.

Authors

Blanca Gonzalez-Garcia¹, Miriam Plaza¹, Maria Fresco¹, Cristina Aparicio¹, Rocio Abia¹, Francisco J G Muriana¹, Sara M Jaramillo-Carmona¹

Affiliation

¹ Instituto de la Grasa, The Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Nutrition, Seville, Spain.

Abstract

Bone marrow (BM) mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) have a crucial role in BM homeostasis and regenerative therapy. While lipids are known to be fundamental components of metabolism, their precise role in modulating the function and behavior of BM-MSCs remains unclear. In this review, we present a comprehensive update on the biology of BM-MSCs in response to fatty acids and cholesterol, which are the major health-related lipids. We discuss the importance of BM as a receptor and producer of lipids and summarize the mechanistic insights by which cholesterol and fatty acids, including endocannabinoids and short-chain fatty acids, regulate BM-MSC stemness, rejuvenation, and commitment. Understanding the complex and interdependent role of lipids on BM-MSCs is critical for proper BM and bone homeostasis. Future research should focus on the development of metabolic strategies to optimize health of the BM and its cells and to refine treatments for BM-related diseases or tissue regeneration.

Keywords: Stem cells research.

Publication types

Review