FORMATION AND FUNCTION OF STEM CELL NICHES

Stem cells and their immediate environment, also called stem cell niche, are critical for the growth and continuous renewal of our organs, and are also key for new growth and repair during regeneration. Unlocking the secrets of how specialized niche cells operate to activate stem cells and progenitors holds great promise for regenerative medicine.

Our laboratory aims to answer these fundamental questions in stem cell biology by utilizing the hair follicle mini-organ as a powerful model system. Deciphering how niche cells govern stem cell and progenitor functions in the hair follicle will also provide a rational basis for developing hair regenerative therapies. Fundamental questions towards this goal are:

1) How do niche cells acquire the stem cell-inducing properties?

2) What are the niche signals that control tissue growth and regeneration?

3) How do niche cells control tissue reorganization?