Researchers at the Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (CNIC) have discovered a way on how hematopoietic stem cells regulate their own proliferation and the microenvironment in which they exist. They discovered that these mechanisms are controlled by protein E-Selectin Ligand-1 (ESL-1). 

The study, led by led by Drs. Andrés Hidalgo and Magdalena Leiva, was published in the journal Nature Communications. The researchers found that ESL-1 controls production of another protein called TGF-?. TGF-? can prevent stem cell proliferation and is useful for stopping the loss of stem cells in certain situations.

They have also discovered that cells without ESL-1 are resistant to the chemicals which are commonly used in chemotherapy. Researchers believe it may be useful for expanding the HSC population before a person donates stem cells or to improve bone marrow growth after chemotherapy. 

Hematopoietic stem cells are responsible for the development of blood cells and are very important for the treatment of many conditions including anaemia, immune system disorders, metabolic disorders and some forms of cancer. HSCs can self-renew by making copies of them, while continually generating both white and red blood cells. Most HSCs are four in bone marrow, inside bones.

The microenvironment that surrounds HSCs contains the elements necessary to maintain stem cells, including signaling elements which manipulate the behaviour of stem cells.

Dr. Hidalgo explains the importance of this system, saying: “we still have much to learn about the mechanisms and cellular components of this medullary microenvironment, and acquiring new knowledge in this area is of vital importance because of its important therapeutic implications.”

Researchers expect that these new findings will lead to better outcomes for both stem cell transplants and cancer treatments in the future.

Source: Stem Cells Regulate their Own Proliferation and their Microenvironment

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