STEM CELLS NICHE- A COMPLEX MOLECULAR MILIEU

Abstract

Stem cells research have an interesting history that has been somewhat tainted with debate and controversy but has progressed dramatically with the countless research studies across the world and hold a great promise for regenerative medicine and cell-based therapies. The fate and function of stem cells are governed by a combination of intrinsic determinants and signals from the local microenvironment, or niche. The number of known interactions that regulate stem cell- niche has dramatically increased during the past few years. Further technological advancements and refined computational models will allow exploring the mechanisms for therapeutic purposes.