Biology of the adult hepatic progenitor cell: "ghosts in the machine"
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 6, 2026

Isolation of CD133+ Liver Stem Cells for Clonal Expansion
Published on: October 10, 2011
Houda Darwiche1, Bryon E Petersen
1Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA.
Abstract:
This chapter reviews some of the basic biological principles governing adult progenitor cells of the liver and the mechanisms by which they operate. If scientists were better able to understand the conditions that govern stem cell mechanics in the liver, it may be possible to apply that understanding in a clinical setting for use in the treatment or cure of human pathologies. This chapter gives a basic introduction to hepatic progenitor cell biology and explores what is known about progenitor cell-mediated liver regeneration. We also discuss the putative stem cell niche in the liver, as well as the signaling pathways involved in stem cell regulation. Finally, the isolation and clinical application of stem cells to human diseases is reviewed, along with the current thoughts on the relationship between stem cells and cancer.
Related Concept Videos
Multipotency of Hematopoietic Stem Cells
Hematopoiesis
Liver Regeneration
Cells of Liver
The liver comprises four major types of cells— hepatocytes, stellate, Kupffer, and sinusoidal endothelial cells. The hepatocytes are large...
Tissue Renewal without Stem Cells
However, failure of such a system...
Overview of Hematopoiesis
Developmental Phases of Hematopoiesis
Initially, HSCs are formed in the embryonic yolk sac, a critical site for early blood cell production. These stem cells subsequently migrate to other...
Adult Stem Cells

