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Stem Cell Niche

Stem Cell Niche

The stem cell niche is the dynamic microenvironment where stem cells reside. Inside these niches, the cells may remain undifferentiated, undergo high self-renewal, or become lineage-specific progenitors. Stem cells coexist with other niche cells, such as stromal cells. They also interact closely with the ECM. Cell-cell and cell-matrix communication occur via adhesion molecules or soluble factors that signal the stem cells and determine their fate. Stromal cells also provide survival signals to...

Multipotency and Niche of Bulge Stem Cell

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A hair follicle or HF is a small part of the skin that produces the hair shaft. Paul Gerson Unna was the first to observe a bulge in the human hair follicle's outer root sheath (ORS). The bulge is present between the sebaceous gland and the arrector pili muscle and is the niche for hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs). The bulge is also a niche for melanocyte stem cells, and their loss results in graying of hair. The HFSCs express Sox9 and Lhx2, which help them maintain stemness and prevent...

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In the CNS, neurogenesis, the birth of new neurons from stem cells, is limited to the hippocampus in adults. In other regions of the brain and spinal cord, neurogenesis is almost non-existent due to inhibitory influences from neuroglia, especially oligodendrocytes, and the absence of growth-stimulating cues. The myelin produced by oligodendrocytes in the CNS inhibits neuronal regeneration. Furthermore, astrocytes proliferate rapidly after neuronal damage, forming scar tissue that physically...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 11, 2026

Stable and Efficient Genetic Modification of Cells in the Adult Mouse V-SVZ for the Analysis of Neural Stem Cell Autonomous and Non-autonomous Effects

Stable and Efficient Genetic Modification of Cells in the Adult Mouse V-SVZ for the Analysis of Neural Stem Cell Autonomous and Non-autonomous Effects

Published on: February 17, 2016

The neural stem cell niche.

Joanne C Conover¹, Ryan Q Notti

¹Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06250-4243, USA. joanne.conover@uconn.edu

Cell and Tissue Research

|October 9, 2007

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Neural stem cell niches maintain the brain's capacity for cellular plasticity by regulating stem cell activity. These specialized zones control neurogenesis and gliogenesis, supporting brain regeneration in specific areas.

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Stable and Efficient Genetic Modification of Cells in the Adult Mouse V-SVZ for the Analysis of Neural Stem Cell Autonomous and Non-autonomous Effects

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Growing Neural Stem Cells from Conventional and Nonconventional Regions of the Adult Rodent Brain

Growing Neural Stem Cells from Conventional and Nonconventional Regions of the Adult Rodent Brain

Published on: November 18, 2013

Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Stem Cell Biology
Developmental Biology

Background:

Neural stem cells (NSCs) persist post-embryonic development within specific niches.
These niches are crucial for generating new neurons and glia, enabling brain plasticity.
The adult brain retains limited zones with NSC populations for regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

To summarize the organization and control mechanisms of the neural stem cell niche.
To highlight the role of microenvironmental cues and cell-cell interactions.
To explain how stem cell quiescence, proliferation, and lineage decisions are regulated.

Main Methods:

Review of current literature on neural stem cell niches.
Analysis of factors influencing stem cell behavior within niches.
Examination of regenerative processes supported by adult neurogenesis.

Main Results:

Neural stem cell niches are specialized microenvironments essential for brain plasticity.
Microenvironmental cues and cell-cell interactions balance stem cell quiescence and proliferation.
Niches direct neurogenesis versus gliogenesis, supporting regeneration in the hippocampus and olfactory bulb.

Conclusions:

The neural stem cell niche is a critical regulatory zone for brain development and repair.
Understanding niche control mechanisms is key to harnessing regenerative potential.
Adult neurogenesis in specific niches supports functions like memory and olfaction.