Study Says Stem Cell 'Fusion' Occurs In Tumors

Source: Oregon Health & Science University
Posted: May 9, 2006

Summary:

Scientists at Oregon Health & Science University discovered that transplanted cells derived from adult bone marrow can fuse with intestinal stem cells of both normal and diseased tissue comprising the cellular lining of intestinal walls, known as the epithelium. The findings emphasize the important role of bone marrow-derived cells in not only regeneration of damaged tissue, but also disease progression. The scientists think that cell fusion with bone marrow cells is the body's way of initiating the regeneration of epithelial tissue. They believe the findings have implications on how tissues regenerate and how, during the process of regeneration, cells may become vulnerable to future problems.

Commentary: Hopefully this will provide new insight into and enable the development of new therapeutic techniques that will improve tissue regeration and transplantation.