Journal of Cell Biology and Metabolism

All submissions of the EM system will be redirected to Online Manuscript Submission System. Authors are requested to submit articles directly to Online Manuscript Submission System of respective journal.
Reach Us +1 (202) 780-3397

Mini Review - Journal of Cell Biology and Metabolism (2024) Volume 6, Issue 1

Stem Cell Signaling Pathways: Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Cellular Fate and Differentiation

Anastasia Derventzi*

Department of Neurology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China

*Corresponding Author:
Anastasia Derventzi
Department of Neurology
Fudan University, Shanghai, China
E-mail: Derventzi@med.uoa.gr

Received: 04-Feb-2024, Manuscript No. AACBM-24-130185; Editor assigned: 06-Feb-2024, PreQC No. AACBM-24-1301855(PQ); Reviewed: 20-Feb-2024, QC No AACBM-24-1301855; Revised: 23-Feb-2024, Manuscript No. AACBM-24-1301855(R); Published: 28-Feb-2024, DOI:10.35841/aacbm-6.1.194

Citation: Derventzi A. Stem cell signaling pathways: Molecular mechanisms underlying cellular fate and differentiation. J Cell Biol Metab. 2024;6(1):194

Visit for more related articles at Journal of Cell Biology and Metabolism

Abstract

   

Introduction

Stem cells possess remarkable capabilities to self-renew and differentiate into various cell types, making them invaluable tools for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. Central to these processes are intricate signaling pathways that govern stem cell fate decisions, proliferation, and lineage commitment. In this article, we explore the multifaceted world of stem cell signaling pathways, shedding light on their roles in maintaining stemness, directing differentiation, and regulating tissue homeostasis [1].

The foundation of stem cell signaling

Stem cell signaling pathways are intricate networks of molecular interactions that transmit extracellular signals into the cell, orchestrating a myriad of cellular responses. These pathways involve the activation and modulation of signaling molecules, such as receptors, kinases, and transcription factors, in response to cues from the microenvironment. Key signaling pathways involved in stem cell regulation include the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, Notch pathway, Hedgehog pathway, and TGF-β/BMP pathway, among others [2].

Wnt/β-catenin pathway: The Wnt/β-catenin pathway plays a pivotal role in regulating stem cell self-renewal and differentiation across various tissues and developmental stages. Activation of the pathway leads to the stabilization and nuclear translocation of β-catenin, where it interacts with transcription factors of the TCF/LEF family to regulate target gene expression. Dysregulation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is implicated in stem cell-related diseases and developmental disorders, highlighting its significance in stem cell biology [3].

Notch signaling pathway: The Notch signaling pathway is essential for cell fate determination and tissue patterning during development and adulthood. Notch receptors and ligands mediate juxtacrine signaling interactions between neighboring cells, leading to proteolytic cleavage and release of the Notch intracellular domain (NICD). NICD translocates to the nucleus, where it forms a transcriptional activation complex with co-activators to regulate target gene expression. Notch signaling influences stem cell maintenance, differentiation, and lineage commitment in various tissues [4].

Hedgehog signaling pathway: The Hedgehog signaling pathway plays diverse roles in embryonic development, tissue homeostasis, and stem cell regulation [5]. Binding of Hedgehog ligands to Patched receptors relieves inhibition of Smoothened, leading to activation of downstream signaling cascades and regulation of target gene expression through transcription factors such as Gli proteins. Dysregulation of Hedgehog signaling is associated with developmental defects, cancer, and degenerative diseases, highlighting its importance in stem cell biology and tissue regeneration [6].

TGF-β/BMP signaling pathway: The transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily, including bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), plays crucial roles in regulating stem cell fate and tissue morphogenesis [7]. TGF-β/BMP ligands bind to cell surface receptors, leading to phosphorylation of downstream Smad proteins and subsequent modulation of gene transcription. The TGF-β/BMP pathway influences diverse cellular processes, including proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis, and is implicated in stem cell maintenance and lineage specification [8].

Clinical implications and future directions: Understanding the intricate signaling pathways that govern stem cell behavior holds tremendous promise for regenerative medicine, disease modeling, and therapeutic interventions [9]. Targeting specific signaling pathways offers potential avenues for manipulating stem cell fate, enhancing tissue regeneration, and treating various diseases and disorders. Moreover, advances in single-cell omics technologies and computational modeling are providing unprecedented insights into the dynamics and regulation of stem cell signaling networks, paving the way for personalized and precision medicine approaches [10].

Conclusion

Stem cell signaling pathways represent the molecular framework underlying the remarkable plasticity and regenerative potential of stem cells. By deciphering the intricacies of these pathways, researchers gain valuable insights into the mechanisms governing stem cell fate decisions, tissue development, and disease progression. Moving forward, harnessing the power of stem cell signaling pathways holds promise for unlocking new therapeutic strategies and advancing the frontiers of regenerative medicine.

References

  1. Katoh M, Katoh M. WNT signaling pathway and stem cell signaling network. Clinical cancer research. 2007;13(14):4042-5.

    2. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  2. Blank U, Karlsson G, Karlsson S. Signaling pathways governing stem-cell fate. Blood Am J Hematol. 2008;111(2):492-503.

    3. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  3. Dreesen O, Brivanlou AH. Signaling pathways in cancer and embryonic stem cells. Stem Cell Rev. 2007;3:7-17.

    4. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  4. Katoh Y, Katoh M. Hedgehog signaling pathway and gastrointestinal stem cell signaling network. Int J Mol Med. 2006;18(6):1019-23.

    5. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  5. Gnecchi M, Zhang Z, Ni A, et al. Paracrine mechanisms in adult stem cell signaling and therapy. Circ Res. 2008;103(11):1204-19.

    6. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  6. Cheng F. Comments on:“Mesenchymal stem cells transplantation for perianal fistulas: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials”. Stem Cell Research & Therapy. 2023;14(1):375.

    7. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  7. Pellegrini S, Cantarelli E, Sordi V, et al. The state of the art of islet transplantation and cell therapy in type 1 diabetes. Acta Diabetol. 2016;53:683-91.

    8. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  8. Liu Q, Pedersen OZ, Peng J, et al. Optimizing dopaminergic differentiation of pluripotent stem cells for the manufacture of dopaminergic neurons for transplantation. Cytotherapy. 2013;15(8):999-1010.

    9. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  9. Qin X, Zhu YP, Luo CJ, et al. Optimizing conditioning regimen with low-dose irradiation or busulfan enables the outcome of transplantation from a 6–7/8 HLA-matched donor comparable to that from an 8/8 HLA-matched unrelated donor in severe aplastic anemia patients under 40 years. Ann Hematol. 2021;100(9):2363-73.

    10. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  10. Locatelli F, Vinti L, Palumbo G, et al. Strategies to optimize the outcome of children given T-cell depleted HLA-haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Best Practice & Research Clinical Haematology. 2011;24(3):339-49.

    11. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

Get the App