Stem cells provide for all of the tissues in our body during embryogenesis. In adult organisms, they can be found as rare populations of tissue-specific stem cells in quiescent states, although they can still regenerate damaged tissues. Astonishingly, these cells are retained in tissues even post-mortem. There have been several reports that have provided evidence that cells with stem-like capabilities can be isolated, expanded, and differentiated in vitro from various tissues several hours, or even several days, post-mortem. Moreover, some post-mortem-tissue-derived stem cells can successfully engraft and regenerate injured host tissues. Here, we review in-vitro and in-vivo studies that provide evidence of isolation and characterization of stem cells from different tissues post-mortem, with a focus on the musculoskeletal and neural systems. Finally, we discuss their potential for use in regenerative medicine, and what needs to be done in further research toward their better exploitation.
COBISS.SI-ID: 4896369
Stem cells play a major role in tissue and organ formation during embryogenesis. They are also retained from embryonic development later in adult life as rare and heterogeneous populations in various tissues and organs. Their identity and mechanism of actions are largely unknown, however we do know they are tissue specific and able to regenerate tissue and organs to some extend in adult organisms. The majority of knowledge comes from preclinical studies, mostly using transgenic animal models. These models enable lineage tracing of stem cells from embryogenesis into adult life and provide information which tissues harbour these unique populations postnatally. In combination with tissue injury animal models, we can investigate which stem cells contribute to tissue repair and how successful they are in forming functional tissue and restoring its capacity. Regenerative medicine exploits stem cells as tools for regenerating damaged tissues and organs. Most often autologous, i.e. patient-derived cell therapies are used to regenerate and restore adult tissues and organs. Stem cells were first identified in bone marrow. Nowadays, bone marrow is most well-recognized source of stem cells. Our current understanding is that two main groups of stem cells, namely hematopoietic and mesenchymal stem cells, form unique niche in the bone marrow. While hematopoietic stem cells are being exploited for the purpose of treating haematological disorders and cardiovascular regeneration, mesenchymal stem cells-derived from bone marrow are particularly used in regenerating musculoskeletal and synovial joint damage. Here, we present the basics of stem cells biology, different types of stem cells focusing on two main groups of bone marrow-derived stem cells, i.e. hematopoietic and mesenchymal stem cells and their potential for regenerative medicine.
COBISS.SI-ID: 4066324