Stem Cell System. The intestinal stem cell system.

Abstract

The intestinal epithelium harbors stem cells at the bottom of crypts. Intestinal stem cells(ISCs)differentiate toward two alternative lineages of secretory or absorptive cells in a unidirectional manner. Studies have revealed factors that are indispensable for maintaining proliferation and differentiation of ISCs, which are provided from the surrounding environment. Additionally, several back-up systems compensating the sudden and massive loss of the ISC pool has been reported. Recent development of the three-dimensional culture system of ISCs in vitro has greatly contributed to elucidate these functional analyses of ISCs.