Phenotype and function of hematopoietic stem cells

Using an in vivo selection technique, we can isolate individual cells that can repopulate the hematopoietic system of a lethally irradiated murine recipient. These cells rapidly acquire a CD34 phenotype in the animal. Progenitors in our long-term chimeras are of donor type. We also have evidence that transplantation of limiting numbers (as low as a single cell) that have this long-term repopulating ability (LTRA) can self-renew. This is demonstrated by serial transplantation of marrow from engrafted recipients 11 months post transplant into new hosts for four additional months.