Education Corner

What are progenitor cells?

Progenitor cells are derived stem cells that have the capability to differentiate into a specific cell types, are self-duplicating within a limited scope, and have the role of epithelium cell maintenance and repair.

Populations of heart (cardiac), lung (pulmonary) and bone marrow derived blood (endothelial) [HLB] progenitor cells become activated by cytokines and growth factors following tissue damage or injury.

Progenitor cells migrate to the target tissue site and begin the process of cell specific differentiation.

Why is understanding progenitor cells important?

Understanding the mechanisms of progenitor cell homeostasis and injury repair in animal models will provide the foundation for novel approaches to human heart, lung and blood cell regeneration resulting from injury or disease.


 


 

Stem Cell Training at Stanford University - February 3-14, 2014: [click on link below to view photos from the training course]

/2014-stanford-training-photoreport

Copyright ©2013 NHLBI Progenitor Cell Biology Consortium.

University of Maryland School of Medicine logo

National Heart Blood and Lung Institute logo