| The Biology of Stem Cells
Elaine L. Wilson Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Cell Biology and Urology / Associate Professor of Cell Biology
Departments of Cell Biology and Urology |
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| Research Summary |
Stem cells are cells that are capable of self-renewal. In addition they generate the lineages of the particular organ in which they reside. They are of interest for a number of reasons. First, an understanding of their biology in any particular organ will enable us to elucidate the functions and physiology of that organ. Second, their characterization and isolation may lead to important advances in tissue regeneration as they may be useful for repairing damaged organs. Third, they are considered to be the targets of malignant transformation. An understanding of their biology may therefore aid considerably in elucidating the manner by which normal cells become malignant.
Our studies encompass both hematopoietic and prostate stem cells. We have recently defined an area of the murine prostate (proximal region), that contains cells with stem cell properties ? slow-cycling, high proliferative potential and the ability to give rise to complex glandular structures in vitro. We now plan to isolate these cells and characterize their cell surface and molecular phenotype.
We have also isolated and characterized a cell from human bone marrow that gives rise to endothelial cells in vitro. These cells are CD34+FGFR1+ and co-expresses both primitive hematopoietic and endothelial cell markers. They grow slowly in culture, are stimulated by endothelial cell mitogens and give rise to cells that express von Willebrand factor, VE-cadherin and incorporate acetylated low density lipoprotein, all properties of endothelial cells. We plan to determine whether these cells form endothelium in vivo. Endothelial stem cells may be useful for repair of damaged vasculature and for delivering anti-tumor agents to the vascular bed of rapidly expanding tumors.
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| Related Images |
Image 1 | A model of prostatic stem cell homeostasis. | | |
| Research Information |
Research Interests | The Biology of Stem Cells
| Research Keywords | stem cells, prostate, hematopoiesis, endothelial cells,
tumors, growth factors
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