The role of mesenchymal stem cells in supporting haemopoiesis and differentiation

Mesenchymal stem cells(MSC) have the ability to self-renew and differentiate into tissues of mesodermal origin (osteocytes, adipocytes, chondrocytes), and the cellular constituents of the microenvironment, largely derive from a common progenitor of mesenchymal origin. MSC themselves and their large numbers of progeny form three kinds of niches(osteoblastic niche, stromal niche and adipocyte niche)which have a fully competent microenvironment to provide appropriate signals via production of soluble factors and cell contact interactions of adhesion molecules, by which they play the role in supporting haemopoiesis and differentiation. Many of the discoveries described herein may contribute to future clinical treatments for hematopoietic, including cancer. Key words: Mesenchymal stem cells;  Hematopoiesis;  Cell adhesion molecules;  Signal transduction;  Niche