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Stem cells: a problem in asymmetry.

L Wolpert1

  • 1Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, University College, Middlesex School of Medicine, London, UK.

Journal of Cell Science. Supplement
|January 1, 1988
PubMed
Summary

Stem cell development is asymmetric, producing identical and different daughter cells. Mechanisms can be intrinsic, like yeast mating types, or extrinsic, influenced by the environment.

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Area of Science:

  • Developmental Biology
  • Cell Biology
  • Stem Cell Biology

Background:

  • Stem cells possess the unique ability to undergo asymmetric development, generating both self-renewing and differentiating daughter cells.
  • The mechanisms underlying this asymmetry can be intrinsic (internal to the cell) or extrinsic (environmental cues).
  • Understanding stem cell asymmetry is crucial for developmental processes and regenerative medicine.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and contextualize the mechanisms of stem cell asymmetric development.
  • To explore examples of intrinsic and extrinsic asymmetry across different species.
  • To critically evaluate proposed mechanisms for mammalian hematopoietic stem cell asymmetry.

Main Methods:

  • Comparative analysis of stem cell systems in various organisms.
  • Review of existing literature on intrinsic and extrinsic asymmetry mechanisms.
  • Discussion of positional cues and environmental influences on stem cell behavior.

Main Results:

  • Intrinsic asymmetry is well-established in yeast (mating types via chromosomal differences), plants, and invertebrates (e.g., nematodes), though mechanisms remain largely unknown in the latter.
  • In insects and vertebrates, intrinsic asymmetry is less clearly established, with extrinsic, position-dependent environmental influences often driving asymmetry (e.g., Hydra).
  • The proposed intrinsic, probabilistic mechanism for mammalian hematopoietic stem cells is questioned, suggesting environmental factors may play a more significant role.

Conclusions:

  • Stem cell asymmetry is a fundamental biological process with diverse underlying mechanisms.
  • Environmental cues and cell position are critical determinants of asymmetry in many systems.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms of stem cell asymmetry, particularly in mammals.

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