A recent study conducted by Eric So, Professor and Chair in Leukaemia Biology in the Comprehensive Cancer Centre, has revealed a key mechanism that controls the functions of bone marrow stem cells. The research identified two molecules, Hoxa9 and b-catenin, that work together in safeguarding the inactive and active statuses of these stem cells. The team also discovered a critical enzyme called PRMT1 that mediates the functions of these molecules. The findings have significant implications for stem cell biology and provide new opportunities for the development of therapeutics, particularly in bone marrow transplantation and cancer treatments. The study was published in the Blood Journal.
Bone marrow stem cells are essential for the life-long replenishment of the blood system. They can turn into different blood cells such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. The study found that these stem cells have two statuses: inactive and active. In the inactive state, known as quiescence, the stem cells are protected and can rest. However, they need to become active again to replicate and replenish the blood system in response to various issues. The delicate balance between keeping the stem cells inactive and protected while allowing them to respond to stress is crucial for bone marrow transplantation and cancer treatments. Understanding this process and the role of molecules like Hoxa9 and b-catenin, as well as the enzyme PRMT1, can inform the development of more effective stem cell therapeutics.
These findings shed light on the principles of stem cell biology and offer promising avenues for future research and treatments. The ability to modulate PRMT1 opens up new possibilities for efficient stem cell therapeutics. Further studies and the application of these findings could potentially revolutionize bone marrow transplantation and cancer treatments, leading to improved outcomes for patients with devastating diseases.
