To isolate the highly enriched subpopulations, the LGRK team is developing a range of markers. “To date, these cells remain partially characterized as their phenotype has not yet been fully established.” “Clinical and biological data show that reservoirs of keratinocytes with very high regenerative potential exist in the basal layer of the interfollicular epidermis,” explains Nicolas Fortunel. The precise location of its precursor cells is not yet clearly understood. Consisting mainly of keratinocytes, the epidermis acts as the body’s first line of defence but still holds many secrets. ![]() These ensure the homeostasis of skin tissue throughout an individual’s life. At the “Laboratoire de génomique et radiobiologie de la kératinopoïèse” (LGRK) (Genomics and Radiobiology of Keratinopoiesis Laboratory) at the “Institut de biologie François Jacob” (Université Paris- Saclay, CEA), Michèle Martin and Nicolas Fortunel study stem cells in the adult human epidermis. This technique is free from some of the ethical concerns linked to the manipulation of embryos.Ī field of research focuses on adult somatic stem cells, which are naturally present in tissues and organs. Produced in the laboratory from an individual’s mature somatic cells, these cells are genetically reprogrammed to return to an embryonic stem cell state. In 2006, the first account of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (IPSCs) generated even more excitement. Potentially capable of multiplying ad infinitum, they are also theoretically able to reproduce all of an individual’s cell types. They are taken from an embryo at an early stage in its development and so they show promising properties. At the same time, adult somatic stem cells can treat severe burns and haematopoietic and corneal defects.Įmbryonic stem cells (ESCs), identified in 1981 in mice and then in humans in 1998, have raised many hopes of finding treatments. Researchers aim to conduct preclinical research to develop new therapeutic approaches to killing cancer stem cells, with the goal of moving these findings into clinical trials.(Article from l'Edition n.15 - february 2021)Ī great deal of research is devoted to exploring the regenerative and therapeutic potential of embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells and their suitability for new disease study models. The institute continues to be the global epicenter of the hunt for cancer stem cells. Cancer Stem Cells: Scientist at the institute have played a key role in discovering and studying cancer stem cells, which are believed to lie at the core of cancer’s destructive potential. ![]() ![]() This research includes the use of NT (nuclear transfer) technology and iPS (induced pluripotent stem cell) technology to create new stem cell lines, which serve as models for studying and treating disorders such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease, and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Lou Gehrig's diseases. New Stem Cell Lines: The institute is exploring how stem cells can be created out of specialized cells that have grown out of the stem cell stage.We also now have the capability to produce embryonic-like cells (iPS cells) from mature cells, and even to create stem cells directly from mature cells without going through the iPS stage. Understanding the mechanics of embryonic stem cells may well be the key to the most dramatic breakthroughs in regeneration medicine. Human embryonic and induced-pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. Researchers are studying how embryonic cells are created and how they specialize to become various tissues in the body.Research in this area is also aimed at understanding the clinical applications of these stem cells, such as regenerating sick or injured organs and tissues. Mature tissue or organ stem cells: Researchers are expanding their understanding of known stem cells that continue to function through life, the so called “adult” stem cells, the mature tissue or organ cells that include blood-forming, neural, skin and skeletal muscle stem cells.
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