Adult Pituitary Stem Cells

摘要: Underlying mechanisms leading to pituitary plasticity by which the gland adapts number of hormone-producing cell continuously changing physiological requirements are still poorly understood. Adult stem cells were shown direct homeostatic maintenance, regeneration, and functional in several organs tissues. Only recently potential identified phenotypically characterized adult pituitary. Multiple possible stem/progenitor candidates proposed, but different studies have been only partially reconciled. Here, we critically analyzed reports addressing identification cells, trying, when possible, reunite results studies. Nonetheless, light non-complete characterization these some discrepancies among published apparent. Importantly, long-term vitro self-renewal, a defining feature remains be unequivocally demonstrated. Finally, role (or progenitor) adenoma development will discussed.