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Stem cell plasticity, cell fusion, and transdifferentiation.

Leonard M Eisenberg¹, Carol A Eisenberg

¹Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Medical University of South Carolina, BSB Rm 654, 171 Ashley Ave., Charleston, SC 29425, USA. eisenblm@MUSC.edu

Birth Defects Research. Part C, Embryo Today : Reviews

|December 16, 2003

Summary

Stem cell plasticity, the ability of stem cells to change into various cell types, remains controversial. This review explores objections and implications, including direct cell conversion, for stem cell biology.

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Area of Science:

Stem cell biology
Developmental biology
Cellular plasticity

Background:

Stem cell plasticity is debated, with some studies reporting evidence and others remaining skeptical.
The traditional view of stem cell potential contrasts with findings suggesting broader capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the controversy surrounding stem cell plasticity.
To examine objections to plasticity data and explore implications for stem cell biology.
To investigate direct cell type conversion (transdifferentiation) and its relation to plasticity.

Main Methods:

Literature review and critical analysis of existing studies on stem cell plasticity.
Examination of data challenging the concept of fixed cell lineages.
Exploration of transdifferentiation as a related phenomenon.

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Main Results:

Significant debate exists regarding the extent and reality of stem cell plasticity.
Objections often stem from methodological concerns and alternative interpretations of data.
Transdifferentiation offers a potential mechanism and parallel to stem cell plasticity.

Conclusions:

The controversy highlights the need for rigorous validation of stem cell plasticity claims.
Understanding plasticity and transdifferentiation could reshape our view of cell differentiation and evolution.
Further research is essential to resolve the debate and understand cell fate determination.