The role of extracellular matrix on liver stem cell fate: A dynamic relationship in health and disease

Differentiation. 2019 Mar-Apr:106:49-56. doi: 10.1016/j.diff.2019.03.001. Epub 2019 Mar 8.

Abstract

The liver stem cell niche is a specialized and dynamic microenvironment with biomechanical and biochemical characteristics that regulate stem cell behavior. This is feasible due to the coordination of a complex network of secreted factors, small molecules, neural, blood inputs and extracellular matrix (ECM) components involved in the regulation of stem cell fate (self-renewal, survival, and differentiation into more mature phenotypes like hepatocytes and cholangiocytes). In this review, we describe and summarize all the major components that play essential roles in the liver stem cell niche, in particular, growth factor signaling and the biomechanical properties of the ECM.

Keywords: ECM; Growth factors; Liver development; Mechanobiology; Progenitor cell; Stem cell; Stem cell niche.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Cell Lineage
  • Disease*
  • Extracellular Matrix / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / metabolism*
  • Signal Transduction
  • Stem Cells / cytology*
  • Stem Cells / metabolism

Substances

  • Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins