Generation of a prostate from a single adult stem cell

摘要: In mice exposed to repeated cycles of androgen deprivation and replacement, the prostate gland shrinks regenerates repeatedly. This suggested existence stem cells; various cell-surface markers have been reported identify candidate cells, however they are not specific for cells. Leong et al. now report identification cytokine receptor CD117 (also called c-kit or cell factor receptor) as a marker rare adult mouse population. Using this marker, in combination with others, isolate single cells that can generate functioning when transplanted into living mice. paper identifies population, uses others upon transplantation vivo. These also exhibit long-term self-renewal. The (PSCs) was first postulated from observation normal regeneration occur after replacement rodents1. Given critical role PSCs maintaining tissue integrity their potential involvement tumorigenesis2, it is important define PSCs. Several PSCs, including antigen-1 (Sca-1, known Ly6a), CD133 (Prom1) CD44 (refs 3—10). However, many non-PSCs express these thus more defined PSC population remains elusive. Here we (c-kit, new demonstrate by phenotype Lin-Sca-1+CD133+CD44+CD117+ expression predominantly localized region proximal urethra upregulated castration-induced involution—two characteristics consistent marker. CD117+ functional, secretion-producing prostates Moreover, self-renewal capacity, evidenced serial isolation Our data establish multipotent, capacity phenotype.