Low Oxygen Preserves Usefulness Of Stem Cells

Source: Yale University
Posted: October 18, 2006

Summary:

Low levels of oxygen, or hypoxia, may help preserve the unique undifferentiated nature of stem or progenitor cells, according to a report by Yale School of Medicine researchers in the Journal of Biological Chemistry.

Stem cell therapy is a possible future approach for the treatment of cancer and other genetic diseases. However, it is difficult to maintain the biological functions of stem cells and progenitor cells in culture. Both stem cells and progenitor cells can give rise to mature functional cell types. Progenitor cells, also called precursor cells, are derived from stem cells, but can only produce a more limited number of mature cell types.

Zhong Yun, senior author of the study and assistant professor of therapeutic radiology, said the research could facilitate the use of these cells in future stem cell therapies by leading to improved conservation methods.

Commentary: This finding might enable researchers to coax stem cells into specific human cell types to replace damaged or destroyed tissue in order to treat diseases, injuries and medical conditions.