Analyzing stem cell dynamics: use of cutting edge genetic approaches in model organisms

Abstract

Regeneration of many cell types found in adult organs relies upon the presence of relatively small pools of undifferentiated stem cells. Initial studies that attempted to isolate stem cells and propagate them in vitro have been complemented by analysis of stem cells in their endogenous tissues where they are subject to a variety of regulatory cues. This has been facilitated by the advent of new methods for lineage tracing and genetic manipulation of stem cells and their associated niche cells. The picture that is emerging is that different stem cell populations utilize diverse processes to ensure maintenance of the stem cell pool accompanied by production of cells committed to regenerate differentiated cells.

Keywords

stem cells / Drosophila / mouse / testis / intestine / lineage tracing

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Acknowledgments

The authors would like to acknowledge the assistance of the Bloomington Drosophila Stock Center and the Australian Drosophila Biomedical Research Support Facility. GRH and HEA received funding from NHMRC(the National Medical Research Council of Australia) Grants APP1048110 and APP1011187, and GRH is also supported by Discovery Project Grant 120100224 from the Australian Research Council.

Compliance with ethics guidelines

Gary Hime, Nicole Siddall, Katja Horvay and Helen Abud declare that they have no conflict of interest.

All institutional and national guidelines for the care and use of laboratory animals were followed.

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