Researchers Map Out Networks That Determine Cell Fate

Source: University of Chicago Medical Center
Date: September 5, 2006

Summary:

Researchers have discovered a two-step process that appears to regulate cell fate decisions for many types of developing cells. Understanding the circuitry that controls these decisions is central to learning how different kinds of stem cells develop. It provides insights into how to transform stem cells into therapeutically useful cells and suggests possible new treatments for leukemias, in which a persistent mixed lineage seems to drive cancerous proliferation.

Commentary: Hopefully this finding can be applied not only to disease treatments by enabling scientists to transform cells to specific cell types to treat disease, but also to prevent healthy cells from becoming disease-carrying cells in order to prevent diseases from forming and spreading.