Related Experiment Videos
The hemangioblast--between blood and vessels
1The Waller and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
Cell Cycle (Georgetown, Tex.)
|April 16, 2003
Summary
Researchers identified a progenitor cell, BL-CFC, in mouse embryonic stem cells that functions as a hemangioblast. This discovery advances understanding of hematopoietic and endothelial cell development.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Stem Cell Biology
- Hematopoiesis
- Angiogenesis
Background:
- The hemangioblast, a bipotential progenitor cell, is theorized to give rise to both hematopoietic and endothelial cells.
- Despite its early postulation, definitive identification of the mammalian hemangioblast remains elusive.
- Recent genetic studies and shared gene expression patterns have revitalized interest in the hemangioblast concept.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize a mammalian cell with hemangioblast-like properties.
- To investigate the molecular regulation of hemangioblast development and differentiation using a stem cell model.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a murine embryonic stem cell differentiation system.
- Identified and characterized a specific progenitor cell population (BL-CFC) expressing Fft-1.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated the existence of a Fft-1 positive progenitor cell (BL-CFC) within the murine embryonic stem cell differentiation system.
- The BL-CFC exhibits properties consistent with the long-sought hemangioblast.
Conclusions:
- The BL-CFC represents a functional hemangioblast identified in vitro.
- This system provides a platform for dissecting the molecular mechanisms governing hemangioblast development and lineage commitment.