A recent study led by Professor Eric So at the Comprehensive Cancer Centre has unveiled a crucial mechanism governing the behavior of bone marrow stem cells, shedding light on fundamental principles of stem cell biology and potentially opening up new avenues for therapeutic interventions. The researchers identified two molecules, Hoxa9 and β-catenin, that regulate when bone marrow stem cells remain inactive or become active and replicate.
Furthermore, they discovered an enzyme called PRMT1 that mediates the functions of these molecules. Understanding this mechanism not only enhances our knowledge of stem cell biology but also offers potential targets for future therapeutics, particularly in bone marrow transplantations and cancer treatments. The study underscores the delicate balance required to maintain stem cells’ inactive state while enabling them to respond to stress and replicate when necessary, with implications for various diseases and medical interventions.