The role of Eph/ephrin molecules in stromal–hematopoietic interactions

Int J Hematol. 2016 Feb;103(2):145-54. doi: 10.1007/s12185-015-1886-x.

Abstract

Bone marrow mesenchymal stromal/stem cells(BMSC) are fundamental regulatory elements of the hematopoietic stem cell niche; however, the molecular signals that mediate BMSC support of hematopoiesis are poorly understood. Recent studies indicate that BMSC and hematopoietic stem/progenitors cells differentially express the Eph cell surface tyrosine kinase receptors, and their ephrinligands. Eph/ephrin interactions are thought to mediate cross-talk between BMSC and different hematopoietic cell populations to influence cell development, migration and function. This review summarizes Eph/ephrin interactions in the regulation of BMSC communication with hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells and discusses Eph/ephrintargeted therapeutic strategies that are currently being pursued or various hematotological malignancies.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Communication* / genetics
  • Ephrins / metabolism
  • Ephrins / physiology*
  • Hematologic Neoplasms / therapy
  • Hematopoiesis
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cells / metabolism
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cells / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Ligands
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cells / metabolism
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cells / physiology*
  • Mice
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy
  • Receptor, EphA1 / metabolism
  • Receptor, EphA1 / physiology*

Substances

  • Ephrins
  • Ligands
  • Receptor, EphA1