Multipotent stem cells
Multipotent stem cells are a type of stem cell with the ability to differentiate into several specialized cell types, but are more restricted in their potential than pluripotent stem cells. Multipotent stem cells are generally found in specific tissues of the body and are responsible for the regeneration and repair of cells in these tissues.
Contrairement aux pluripotent stem cells, Unlike pluripotent stem cells, which can differentiate into any cell type in the body, multipotent stem cells have more limited options for differentiation. For example, a multipotent stem cell in the bone marrow could differentiate into different types of blood cells, such as red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets, but could not transform into cells of other tissues such as brain neurons.
Here are some examples of multipotent stem cells:
Hematopoietic stem cells: Found in the bone marrow, these cells are responsible for the production of various types of blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. To identify and characterize these cells, researchers use various markers, such as cell surface proteins spécifiques; CD34, CD38, CD90 (Thy-1), CD45, CD133 (Prominin-1).
Mesenchymal stem cells : Found in various connective tissues such as bone marrow, adipose tissue and umbilical cord, these cells can differentiate into various cell types, including bone cells, adipose cells and cartilage cells. Several biomarkers are available to characterize these cells:
- CD73 (Ecto-5'-nucleotidase) : Regulation of inflammation and immune response.
- CD90 (Thy-1) : Regulation of cell signaling.
- CD105 (Endogline) : Regulation of cell proliferation and differentiation.
- CD44 (Hyaluronan receptor) : Cell adhesion and signaling.
- CD146 (MCAM - Melanoma-like cell adhesion molecule) : Cell adhesion and regulation of cell migration.
- CD271 (NGFR - Nerve Growth Factor Receptor) : Regulation of cell differentiation.
- STRO-1 : Monoclonal antibody often used to identify MSCs in bone marrow.
Neural stem cells : Present in the nervous system, these stem cells have the capacity to differentiate into different types of central and peripheral nervous system cells, such as neurons and glial cells. To characterize NSCs, researchers often use markers expressed by the SN (Nestine, Pax6, CD133, Prominin-1, Notch1)
Epithelial stem cells : Present in epithelial tissues, these stem cells play a role in the regeneration of epithelial tissues, such as skin and mucous membranes.
Surface markers that can be used to isolate epithelial stem cells include: CD49f (alpha6-integrine), CD44, CD24.
Intestinal stem cells: Found in the intestinal mucosa, these stem cells are involved in the constant regeneration of the intestinal lining. They play a crucial role in the constant renewal of the intestinal mucosa, and are responsible for the regeneration of intestinal cells. Several biomarkers are used to identify and characterize them:
- Lgr5 (Leucine-rich repeat-containing G-protein coupled receptor 5) : expressed in intestinal crypt stem cells.
- Olfm4 (Olfactomedin 4) : involved in regulating cell proliferation.
- Bmi1 (B-cell-specific Moloney murine leukemia virus integration site 1) : regulates the self-renewal of intestinal stem cells.
Multipotent stem cells are of great importance for tissue regeneration and the maintenance of normal body functions. Although their differentiation potential is limited compared with pluripotent stem cells, they play an essential role in tissue repair after injury or disease, and offer interesting prospects for regenerative medicine.